Preparation of Polymer Membranes by In Situ Interfacial Polymerization

Membranes currently have a wide application in sewage treatment and water purification processes, in seawater desalination, and in various technological processes where high product purity is required. Deposition of an ultrathin skin layer of TFC (thin-film composite) and TFN (thin-film nanocomposite) onto the surface of membranes is discussed in this article. Their presence improves membrane properties such as retention of impurities and permeability. The aim of this paper is to present the current state of knowledge about the methods of preparing composite and nanocomposite membranes. The properties of the prepared TFC membranes can be modified by changing the type and concentration of the reacting monomers, and the physical conditions in which the membrane preparation process itself is carried out are also significant. Additionally, the properties of TFN membranes can be further modified with nanocomposites. The membranes are characterized by different properties not only because they have nanoparticles in their structure but also because their concentration and the way they are blended into the membrane structure were changed. This paper provides information on modifications of TFN membranes with nanoparticles, as well as modification by changes in polymerization reaction conditions and monomer concentration. Examples of the use of TFN and TFC membranes are also presented.