Membranes

7 pages, 181 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Membrane Separation Techniques: Advances, Challenges, and Future Avenues

by Chii-Dong Ho

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030112 - 23 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1699

The separation of substances from one another, such as distillation, extraction, absorption, crystallization, and drying, comprises a main sector of the industry engineering field and has substantial potential to play an increasingly important role in the application of separation technologies and innovations [...] [...] Read more.

The separation of substances from one another, such as distillation, extraction, absorption, crystallization, and drying, comprises a main sector of the industry engineering field and has substantial potential to play an increasingly important role in the application of separation technologies and innovations [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Membrane Separation Techniques: Advances, Challenges, and Future Avenues)

4 pages, 193 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Advances in Electromembrane Processes for Resource Recovery

by Krzysztof Mitko, Marian Turek, Mònica Reig and Xanel Vecino

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 111; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030111 - 20 Mar 2026

Viewed by 752

Abstract

Electromembrane processes are a separate class of membrane methods that utilize ion transport across the ion exchange membranes [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Electromembrane Processes for Resource Recovery)

20 pages, 4834 KB

Open AccessArticle

Tubular Membrane Coupled with Marine Waste-Derived Hybrid Adsorbent for Textile Micropollutant Removal and Photochemical Regeneration

by Rania Chihi, Mouna Ibn Mahresi, Fadhila Ayari, Lamjed Mansour and Amel Ben Othman

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 110; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030110 - 19 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 954

Abstract

The development of sustainable ceramic membranes remains a major challenge for advanced wastewater treatment, particularly regarding the trade-off between mechanical durability and the removal of dissolved micropollutants. While bentonite membranes offer high stability, they often lack the selective adsorption sites required for complex [...] Read more.

The development of sustainable ceramic membranes remains a major challenge for advanced wastewater treatment, particularly regarding the trade-off between mechanical durability and the removal of dissolved micropollutants. While bentonite membranes offer high stability, they often lack the selective adsorption sites required for complex effluents, and the recovery of high-capacity powder adsorbents remains technically prohibitive. This paper addresses these gaps by developing an integrated hybrid system that combines eco-friendly bentonite-based tubular membranes with regenerable clam shell-derived adsorbents. The membranes were synthesized using natural plasticizers and binders with optimization at a sintering temperature of 1000 °C yielding an average pore size of 1.7 µm, a high flexural strength of 24.06 MPa, and a permeability of 525 L h⁻¹ m⁻² bar⁻¹. To enhance the performance, clam shell powder was integrated as a functional adsorbent layer. When applied to real textile effluent from a jeans washing plant, this integrated process achieved superior removal efficiencies: 85.6% COD, 86.5% BOD₅, 86.5% TSS, and 96.5% color. A key scientific contribution of this paper is the successful application of a photochemical regeneration approach, which ensures complete adsorbent recovery and maintains membrane flux, directly supporting circular economy objectives. These results demonstrate that combining low-cost ceramic scaffolds with marine waste-derived materials provides a unique, efficient, and green solution for the scalable treatment of industrial wastewater. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ceramic Membranes in Harsh Gas Environments: Exploring the Potential for Practical Applications)

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21 pages, 3325 KB

Open AccessArticle

Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling of Counter-Current Flow in Channels Separated by a Membrane

by Akram Abdullah and Rathinam Panneer Selvam

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 109; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030109 - 19 Mar 2026

Viewed by 1264

Abstract

Several studies have investigated counterflow and concurrent flow in channels separated by a membrane to simulate mass transfer through membranes; however, few of them have used computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The current study aimed to numerically simulate and physically describe the distribution of [...] Read more.

Several studies have investigated counterflow and concurrent flow in channels separated by a membrane to simulate mass transfer through membranes; however, few of them have used computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The current study aimed to numerically simulate and physically describe the distribution of pressure and velocity in counter-current flow by solving Navier-Stokes (N-S) equations in the channel and membrane pores (vertical channels). This is in contrast to most previous studies, in which the channel flow was simulated using N-S equations while ultra-filtration membrane flow was simulated using Darcy’s law. Consequently, the current study was executed using a CFD simulation to achieve several significant features: avoiding the execution of experimental tests, reducing the effort of model design and the expense and time consumption of fabrication, and facilitating the easy observation of variations in the pressure and the horizontal and vertical velocity for each point in the model. Two-dimensional CFD methods directly simulated the flow in channels and membrane pores to solve the N-S equations for each point in the whole domain, for which the velocity (horizontal and vertical) and pressure were calculated. In the current study, it was found that the pressure decreased from the inlet to the outlet of the channel, the horizontal velocity decreased from the inlet to the middle of the channel length and then increased to the outlet of the channel, and the vertical velocity decreased from the inlet to the middle of the channel length (L/2) with an upward direction (positive) and from L/2 to the outlet of the channel with a downward direction (negative). The analytical solution (1D model) was used to validate a numerical simulation (CFD) for the current study, but there were slight differences in the results between them. The results were perfectly explored and displayed the flow distribution patterns inside the channels and the membrane pores (vertical channels). The current study model represents the hemodialysis process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Membrane Applications for Other Areas)

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6 pages, 194 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Fundamentals of Transport in Polymers and Membranes—Honorary Issue for Professor Giulio C. Sarti

by Maria Grazia De Angelis and Matteo Minelli

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 108; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030108 - 18 Mar 2026

Viewed by 994

Abstract

This Special Issue of Membranes celebrates the scientific achievements, international vision, and collaborative spirit of Professor Giulio C [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fundamentals of Transport in Polymers and Membranes—Honorary Issue for Professor Giulio C. Sarti)

4 pages, 173 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Editorial for the Special Issue on Fabrication, Characterization and Application of Organic/Inorganic Film Membranes and Advanced Materials (Volume III)

by Elena Kalinina

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030107 - 18 Mar 2026

Viewed by 566

Abstract

The Special Issue entitled “Fabrication, Characterization and Application of Organic/Inorganic Film Membranes and Advanced Materials (Volume III)” continues the themes of the previous Special Issue entitled “Fabrication, Characterization and Application of Organic/Inorganic Film Membranes and Advanced Materials (Volume II) [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fabrication, Characterization and Application of Organic/Inorganic Film Membranes and Advanced Materials (Volume III))

30 pages, 2408 KB

Open AccessArticle

Capture, Sampling and Analysis of Biogenic CO₂ Streams for Methanol Synthesis

by Evangelia Koliamitra, Vasileios Mitrousis, Tzouliana Kraia, Giorgos Kardaras, Nikoleta Lazaridou, Triantafyllia Grekou, Kyriakos Fotiadis, Dimitrios Koutsonikolas, Akrivi Asimakopoulou, Michael Bampaou and Kyriakos D. Panopoulos

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030106 - 17 Mar 2026

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1956

Abstract

The shipping sector is responsible for a considerable share of global CO₂ emissions and is under pressure to reduce emissions and adopt carbon-neutral fuels. Among the proposed alternatives, methanol produced from green hydrogen and biogenic CO₂ represents a promising option. However, [...] Read more.

The shipping sector is responsible for a considerable share of global CO₂ emissions and is under pressure to reduce emissions and adopt carbon-neutral fuels. Among the proposed alternatives, methanol produced from green hydrogen and biogenic CO₂ represents a promising option. However, the feasibility of its production is significantly influenced by the composition and variability of the bio-CO₂ feedstock, which can negatively impact the complete value chain. To address these challenges, sampling campaigns were carried out at actual bio-CO₂-emitting sites, namely biogas and biomass combustion facilities, to characterize the impurity profiles and determine the appropriate conditioning requirements. A novel membrane gas absorption system with a Diethanolamine solution was deployed directly in the field to capture, as well as purify to a certain extent, the CO₂ stream. The system demonstrated high efficiency in removing most impurities, achieving high CO₂ capture rates and impurity reduction close to 90%. However, residual chlorine species were detected in the CO₂ streams from biogas plants, suggesting the need for additional conditioning to meet the purity specifications required for methanol synthesis. Given that the feedstock composition and upstream process conditions could significantly affect the final output and present considerable variations, the implementation of additional cleaning measures is recommended before synthesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Membrane Applications for Gas Separation)

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5 pages, 193 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Editorial for the Special Issue on Fabrication, Characterization and Application of Organic/Inorganic Film Membranes and Advanced Materials (Volume II)

by Elena Kalinina

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030105 - 17 Mar 2026

Viewed by 636

Abstract

The Special Issue ‘Fabrication, Characterization and Application of Organic/Inorganic Film Membranes and Advanced Materials (Volume II)’ includes 13 articles covering various aspects of the formation and application of organic and inorganic membranes and various membrane-based devices [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fabrication, Characterization and Application of Organic/Inorganic Film Membranes and Advanced Materials (Volume II))

20 pages, 5809 KB

Open AccessArticle

Oxygen Plasma-Modified Graphene Composite Membranes for Enhanced Forward Osmosis Performance: Mitigating Reverse Salt Flux and Improving Permeability

by Keyuan Zhang, Yan Wu, Yue Jiang, Qi Han, Minmin Zhang, Li Feng and Liqiu Zhang

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030104 - 16 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 879

Abstract

Forward osmosis (FO) membranes face challenges in balancing high water permeability, low reverse salt flux (RSF), and mechanical durability. Although nanopores in graphene have great theoretical potential, the existing methods make it difficult to independently optimize the nanopores of the graphene layer and [...] Read more.

Forward osmosis (FO) membranes face challenges in balancing high water permeability, low reverse salt flux (RSF), and mechanical durability. Although nanopores in graphene have great theoretical potential, the existing methods make it difficult to independently optimize the nanopores of the graphene layer and the microstructure of the substrate without damaging each other. Here, we propose a defect engineering strategy based on oxygen plasma etching to address this collaborative optimization challenge. Monolayer porous graphene (PG) was integrated with polysulfone (Psf) substrates, followed by oxygen plasma etching to introduce nanopores and oxygen-containing functional groups (e.g., carboxyl, hydroxyl). By controlling the etching time to 10 s, the resulting membrane (S-PG10) exhibited a water flux of 0.24 LMH in 0.5 M NaCl, representing an order-of-magnitude increase compared to the pristine graphene membrane (S-G). Remarkably, S-PG10 maintained a high salt rejection (>96%) and a low J_s/J_w (<0.35 g·L⁻¹). Substrate modification via short-term plasma etching (5 min) further doubled the water flux of S*5-PG10 (0.47 LMH in 0.5 M NaCl) by increasing porosity (81.8%→85.6%) and hydrophilicity. However, prolonged etching (>15 min) degraded mechanical strength and increased RSF due to pore structure disruption. To enhance robustness, Poly(D,L-lactic acid) (PDLLA)-doped substrates (S^#-PG) were engineered, with 0.1 wt.% PDLLA optimizing mechanical properties while maintaining low RSF and high flux. Excessive PDLLA (10 wt.%) induced hydrophobicity and crystalline structures, reducing permeability. The study demonstrates that synergistic optimization of plasma etching duration on the graphene selective layer (5~10 s) and substrates (5 min) as well as PDLLA doping (0.1 wt.%) balances pore architecture, surface chemistry, and substrate integrity, achieving FO membranes with superior water-salt selectivity and mechanical stability. These findings provide critical insights into designing high-performance graphene-based membranes for sustainable desalination and water purification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Membrane Modification for Next-Generation Water Treatment)

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1 pages, 224 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Sun et al. Silicalite Nanosheet Laminated Membranes: Effects of Layered Structure on the Performance in Pervaporation Desalination. Membranes 2026, 16, 32

by Xinhui Sun, Yukta Sharma, Landysh Iskhakova, Zishu Cao and Junhang Dong

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030103 - 12 Mar 2026

Viewed by 691

Abstract

In the original publication [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Membrane Technologies for the Treatment of Industrial Wastewater and Emerging Contaminants: Challenges and Innovations)

2 pages, 151 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Kalugin et al. Heparin-Immobilized Polyethersulfone for Hemocompatibility Enhancement of Dialysis Membrane: In Situ Synchrotron Imaging, Experimental, and Ex Vivo Studies. Membranes 2023, 13, 718

by Denis Kalugin, Jumanah Bahig, Ahmed Shoker and Amira Abdelrasoul

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030102 - 11 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 613

Abstract

In the original publication [...] Full article

26 pages, 6244 KB

Open AccessArticle

Modification of Polysulfone Substrate with GO–PAMAM Nanocomposite for Improved Desalination Performance

by Mohd Muzammil Zubair, Ahmed T. Yasir, Abdelbaki Benamor and Syed Javaid Zaidi

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030101 - 10 Mar 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1548

Abstract

Globally, freshwater scarcity is driving the urgent demand for advanced and new desalination technologies to overcome the shortage of clean water. Reverse osmosis (RO) membranes dominate seawater and brackish water treatment but are limited by the permeability–selectivity trade-off, fouling, and structural instability. To [...] Read more.

Globally, freshwater scarcity is driving the urgent demand for advanced and new desalination technologies to overcome the shortage of clean water. Reverse osmosis (RO) membranes dominate seawater and brackish water treatment but are limited by the permeability–selectivity trade-off, fouling, and structural instability. To overcome these challenges, we employed a phase inversion process to fabricate polysulfone (PSF) supports embedded with a graphene oxide–poly(amidoamine) (GO-PAMAM) nanocomposite at three concentrations (0.03, 0.06, and 0.10 wt%), alongside a pristine control membrane with no GO-PAMAM. Systematic variation in GO-PAMAM loading revealed that a 0.06 wt% nanoparticle helps in producing a more uniform polyamide layer that achieves a high NaCl rejection (95.88%) and higher water flux (42.6 L m⁻² h⁻¹). The performance was evaluated at an operating pressure of 20 bar with a feed flow rate of 4 L min⁻¹. The optimized membrane also demonstrated an improved fouling resistance, retaining 93% of its initial flux after fouling. This scalable approach highlights substrate-level modification as an effective strategy for next-generation RO membranes, advancing sustainable and energy-efficient desalination to meet escalating global water demands. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Modified Thin-Film Composite (TFC) Membranes: Innovations in Selective, Intermediate, and Support Structures)

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19 pages, 3948 KB

Open AccessArticle

Anti-Wetting PVDF Membrane Modification by Coating Fluoride and Deposing Different Silicon Contents for Membrane Distillation Treatment of Ammonia Nitrogen Wastewater

by Qianliang Liu, Xin Guo, Hengyu Ai, Hongbo Liang, Fen Li and Caihong Liu

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030100 - 6 Mar 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1206

Abstract

Membrane distillation (MD) was a promising approach for treating highly concentrated ammonia–nitrogen wastewater. However, membrane wetting often limited large-scale application. To address this, we built an anti-wetting layer on a commercial PVDF membrane surface by coating fluoride and depositing SiO₂ nanoparticles. Three [...] Read more.

Membrane distillation (MD) was a promising approach for treating highly concentrated ammonia–nitrogen wastewater. However, membrane wetting often limited large-scale application. To address this, we built an anti-wetting layer on a commercial PVDF membrane surface by coating fluoride and depositing SiO₂ nanoparticles. Three PVDF/ SiO₂/F membranes were prepared with different silicon contents: 1%, 6%, and 12% (volume) of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS). These processes created different surface roughness on the modified membranes. Results showed that the membrane containing 6% TEOS exhibited the best resistance to sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) in NaCl solution. This optimized membrane was subsequently tested with real wastewater, including source-separated urine and landfill leachate. In 10 h, it removed 97.5% of total organic carbon (TOC) from urine, achieving an ammonia absorption rate of 55.1% and removed 92.4% from leachate, with an ammonia absorption rate of 37.58%. These results provide a reference for membrane fabrication parameter optimization to enhance the membrane’s anti-wetting ability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Membrane and Other Innovative Technologies for Water Purification: Design, Development, and Application, 2nd Edition)

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22 pages, 375 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Lie Group Basis of Neuronal Membrane Architecture: Why the Hodgkin–Huxley Equations Take Their Form

by Robert F. Melendy and Daniel H. Blue

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030099 - 4 Mar 2026

Viewed by 1736

Abstract

The Hodgkin–Huxley equations have successfully described neuronal excitability for over seventy years, yet their mathematical structure remains empirically justified rather than theoretically explained. Why are gating variables bounded between 0 and 1? Why does sodium conductance depend on m³h rather than [...] Read more.

The Hodgkin–Huxley equations have successfully described neuronal excitability for over seventy years, yet their mathematical structure remains empirically justified rather than theoretically explained. Why are gating variables bounded between 0 and 1? Why does sodium conductance depend on m³h rather than other combinations? Why does potassium depend on n⁴? Why do all rate functions contain exponential voltage dependencies? Why are the kinetics first-order? We demonstrate that these structural features arise naturally from three fundamental physical symmetries governing ion channel dynamics: the compactness of conformational state space, the scaling invariance of membrane conductance, and temporal translation invariance. Using Lie group theory, we show that these symmetries uniquely determine a mathematical structure in which: (1) gating variables are necessarily bounded, (2) voltage dependencies must be exponential, (3) exponents must be integers, and (4) kinetics must be first-order. The Hodgkin–Huxley equations, rather than mere empirical fits, emerge from fundamental symmetry principles. This framework establishes that neural electrophysiology obeys the same theoretical principles as modern physics, where symmetries constrain the form of dynamical equations. It further provides a principled basis for interpreting deviations from classical behavior as manifestations of additional symmetries or symmetry breaking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Membranes: Where Chemistry and Physics Converge for Biology)

17 pages, 3842 KB

Open AccessArticle

Fluoxetine Reshapes Macrophage Membrane Sphingolipids and Inflammatory Response Without Affecting Extracellular Vesicle Biogenesis upon Inactivated SARS-CoV-2 Stimulation

by Jonatan C. S. de Carvalho, Pedro Nobre-Azevedo, Pedro V. da Silva-Neto, Bianca T. M. Oliveira, Lucas A. Tavares, Diana M. Toro, Andrews O. Borges, Murillo A. Nascimento, Eurico Arruda, Ronaldo B. Martins, Fausto Almeida and Carlos A. Sorgi

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030098 - 4 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1987

Abstract

Sphingolipids (SL) are essential structural and bioactive components of cell membranes, remarkably involved in inflammatory signaling and membrane dynamics. Dysregulation of SL metabolism contributes to pathological inflammation and cellular stress. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine (FXT), are known inhibitors of [...] Read more.

Sphingolipids (SL) are essential structural and bioactive components of cell membranes, remarkably involved in inflammatory signaling and membrane dynamics. Dysregulation of SL metabolism contributes to pathological inflammation and cellular stress. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as fluoxetine (FXT), are known inhibitors of acid sphingomyelinase (aSMase), although their impact on macrophage SL remodeling and inflammatory responses remains unclear. Here, we investigated the modulation of FXT on SL species composition and inflammatory activation in THP-1-derived macrophages stimulated with inactivated SARS-CoV-2 particles, which is a model of viral-induced inflammation. Sphingolipidomic profiling revealed that FXT pre-treatment markedly reduced ceramide (Cer) species while increasing sphingomyelin (SM) and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) levels, consistent with inhibition of the aSMase-Cer axis. These changes were accompanied by attenuation of proinflammatory components, including interleucin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9, indicating that SL remodeling correlates with reduced macrophage activation. Despite pronounced alterations in membrane lipid composition, the quantification of extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by FXT-treated macrophages remained unchanged, however the EVs size distribution was smaller compared to non-treated cells. Altogether, our findings demonstrate that FXT reshapes SL metabolism and lipid membrane composition, thereby diminishing macrophage activation without affecting EVs biogenesis. This study emphasizes the immunometabolic role of SL on membrane reprogramming as a mechanism by which pharmacological aSMase inhibition modulates viral inflammation responses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composition and Biophysical Properties of Lipid Membranes)

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34 pages, 2813 KB

Open AccessReview

AI in Membrane Design and Optimization for Hydrogen Fuel Cells

by Bshaer Nasser, Hisham Kazim, Moin Sabri, Muhammad Tawalbeh and Amani Al-Othman

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030097 - 3 Mar 2026

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2719

Abstract

This paper reviews artificial intelligence (AI) applications in the design and optimization of proton exchange membrane (PEM) materials for hydrogen fuel cells. Clean energy conversion is a substantial benefit of PEM fuel cells, which conventional membrane development struggles with due to time-consuming trial-and-error [...] Read more.

This paper reviews artificial intelligence (AI) applications in the design and optimization of proton exchange membrane (PEM) materials for hydrogen fuel cells. Clean energy conversion is a substantial benefit of PEM fuel cells, which conventional membrane development struggles with due to time-consuming trial-and-error methods, which are not adequate in capturing the different interdependencies of the membrane structure, and environmental variables. The review establishes foundational design principles of PEMs and outlines their challenges and computational methodologies are constructed to address them. Various advanced AI methods have been highlighted which include graph neural networks, multitask frameworks, and physics-informed models that facilitate rapid prediction of polymer properties. Optimization methods have been reported with 10–30% performance improvements, for instance, NSGA-II frameworks achieving 13–27% gains in power density. Experimental requirements are reduced by 40–60%, as seen with Bayesian optimization, identifying optimal designs within as few as 40 iterations. Current challenges include data availability, generalizability, and scalability, which are closely assessed in this review. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Membrane Design for Hydrogen Technologies)

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1 pages, 970 KB

Open AccessCorrection

Correction: Ning et al. Orodispersible Membranes from a Modified Coaxial Electrospinning for Fast Dissolution of Diclofenac Sodium. Membranes 2021, 11, 802

by Tingbao Ning, Yangjian Zhou, Haixia Xu, Shiri Guo, Ke Wang and Deng-Guang Yu

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030096 - 3 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 506

Abstract

In the original publication [...] Full article

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24 pages, 2826 KB

Open AccessArticle

Computational Microscopy Reveals Compound-Specific Flickering Phenotypes of Red Blood Cells Under Flavonoid Exposure

by Carlos del Pozo-Rojas, Sandra Montalvo-Quirós, Lourdes Rufo, José María Bueno, Macarena Calero, Francisco Monroy and Diego Herráez-Aguilar

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030095 - 3 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1301

Abstract

Red blood cell (RBC) membrane flickering arises from the interplay between thermal fluctuations, cytoskeletal elasticity, and metabolically driven non-equilibrium processes, making it a sensitive reporter of membrane mechanical state. Here, we introduce a computational microscopy framework that integrates bright-field morphometry with high-speed flickering [...] Read more.

Red blood cell (RBC) membrane flickering arises from the interplay between thermal fluctuations, cytoskeletal elasticity, and metabolically driven non-equilibrium processes, making it a sensitive reporter of membrane mechanical state. Here, we introduce a computational microscopy framework that integrates bright-field morphometry with high-speed flickering spectroscopy to phenotype single-cell RBC mechanics under flavonoid exposure. As a proof of concept, human erythrocytes from a single donor were incubated with structurally distinct flavonoids (quercetin, apigenin, and rutin) prepared at sub-hemolytic concentrations, ensuring preservation of membrane integrity. Static shape descriptors and dynamic fluctuation spectra were extracted from segmented cell contours and analyzed through Fourier-mode decomposition to obtain compound-specific mechanical signatures. While gross morphology remained largely discocytic across conditions, flavonoid treatment induced reproducible alterations in flickering spectra and effective mechanical parameters, revealing distinct dynamical phenotypes that depend on flavonoid structure. In particular, aglycone flavonoids exhibited modulation patterns that differed from the glycosylated compound, consistent with differential membrane interactions. The combined analysis of geometry and dynamics provided enhanced discriminative power compared to either modality alone. These results establish computational microscopy as a sensitive, label-free approach to map compound-specific perturbations of RBC membrane mechanics and flickering, with potential applications in membrane biophysics, drug–membrane interaction screening, and single-cell mechanical phenotyping. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Biological Membrane Functions)

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23 pages, 3393 KB

Open AccessArticle

A New Power Dissipation Model and Its Analytic Formulation for Electric-Field-Driven Water Dissociation in the Cationic/Anionic Bipolar Polymer Membrane Junctions

by Mohamed Fadel Anass Ma-el-ainine, Rachid Boukhili and Oumarou Savadogo

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030094 - 2 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1492

Abstract

Bipolar Polymer Membranes (BPMs) enable the creation of large, stable pH gradients by driving water dissociation (WD) at the cation/anion junction under reverse bias, a process central to electrodialysis, CO₂ capture, and emerging acid–alkaline water electrolysis. Yet despite decades of study, the [...] Read more.

Bipolar Polymer Membranes (BPMs) enable the creation of large, stable pH gradients by driving water dissociation (WD) at the cation/anion junction under reverse bias, a process central to electrodialysis, CO₂ capture, and emerging acid–alkaline water electrolysis. Yet despite decades of study, the mechanism by which intense interfacial electric fields accelerate WD remains debated and is often modeled with ad hoc assumptions. In this study, we present a power dissipation model in which minority ions from water autoprotolysis act as carriers that continuously dissipate field-supplied power in the hydrated nanometric junction. This dissipative input increases the local probability of heterolytic O–H bond cleavage and analytically leads to a quadratic dependence of the dissociation rate constant on the field. Without adjustable parameters, the model reproduces the required orders of magnitude for the enhancement ratio k_d(E)/k_d(0), where k_d(E) is the field-enhanced water dissociation rate constant and k_d(0) is its zero-field value across typical BPM fields, and yields a quadratic current–voltage junction law. A proof-of-principle measurement on a commercial Fumasep^® FBM bipolar membrane confirms the quadratic current–voltage trend, supporting a power-dissipation-driven water dissociation mechanism and providing a concise, falsifiable baseline for future studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrodialysis and Reverse Electrodialysis in Ion-Exchange Membrane Systems)

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16 pages, 2158 KB

Open AccessArticle

Do Magnesium Ions Have Similar Effects as Calcium Ions on Resting Membrane Potential?

by Anthony Hana, Youngwoo Kim, Joy Bidros, Katie Neglia and Robin L. Cooper

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030093 - 2 Mar 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1441

Abstract

Maintaining a membrane electrical potential of biological cells is a dynamic process, as some cells have a continually changing potential, like pacemaker cells, while other cells may function with large or small changes in the membrane potential. Additionally, some cells may change their [...] Read more.

Maintaining a membrane electrical potential of biological cells is a dynamic process, as some cells have a continually changing potential, like pacemaker cells, while other cells may function with large or small changes in the membrane potential. Additionally, some cells may change their electrical potential when stimulated or inhibited by electrical signals, chemical compounds, or both—either simultaneously or episodically. The persistent leak of K⁺ through two-pore-domain potassium channels (K2P) and of Na⁺ through Na⁺ leak channels (NALCNs) and the action of pumps and exchangers are primarily responsible for maintaining a resting potential. Ca²⁺ ions are known to block the NALCNs and result in a more hyperpolarized membrane potential, with a reduction in Ca²⁺ resulting in a depolarized state. Using the larval muscles of Drosophila, the membrane potentials were monitored as Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺ concentrations were altered. Changes as large as 20 mM of Mg²⁺ had only small effects (1 to 2 mV) on the membrane potential compared to 3–5 mM changes in Ca²⁺ having larger effects (5–10 mV). Although, it appears raised [Mg²⁺] may dampen the changes induced by Ca²⁺. Simulations of the G-H-K equation estimate the changes in permeability of Na+ (pNa). These experiments are significant, as the clinical severity of hypocalcemia and hypercalcemia may also depend on Mg²⁺ levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biological Membranes)

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14 pages, 1425 KB

Open AccessArticle

Highly Selective and Efficient Transport of Au(III), Pt(IV), and Pd(II) from Hydrochloric Acid Across Polymer Inclusion Membranes Containing Ionic Liquid as Ion Carrier

by Iwona Zawierucha, Cezary Kozlowski, Bernadeta Gajda and Katarzyna Witt

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030092 - 2 Mar 2026

Viewed by 1055

Abstract

Ionic liquid (IL) N-methyl-N′-1-(4-t-butylphenylphosphinyl)butylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulphonyl) imide was used for the first time as an ion carrier in membrane systems to selectively transport Au(III), Pt(IV), and Pd(II) ions. Au(III), Pd(II), and Pt(IV) were transported from HCl solutions utilizing a polymer inclusion membrane (PIM) with [...] Read more.

Ionic liquid (IL) N-methyl-N′-1-(4-t-butylphenylphosphinyl)butylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulphonyl) imide was used for the first time as an ion carrier in membrane systems to selectively transport Au(III), Pt(IV), and Pd(II) ions. Au(III), Pd(II), and Pt(IV) were transported from HCl solutions utilizing a polymer inclusion membrane (PIM) with cellulose triacetate as the support, o-nitrophenyl pentyl ether as the plasticizer, and ionic liquid as the mentioned ion carrier. The modifications of source and receiving aqueous phase compositions are examined. High selectivity for Au(III) using the ionic liquid in the membrane was achieved at elevated HCl concentrations (≥0.5 M). When a 0.010 M KI solution was used as the receiving phase and a membrane with the optimal composition was applied, the extraction of Au(III) ions reached a maximum recovery rate of 93%. Moreover, PIM studies showed that carrier molecules doped in the membrane creates complexes with the Au(III) ion with a molar ratio of 1:1. The extractability of Au(III) through PIMs exceeded that of other metal ions, with the selectivity of transported metal ions ranked as follows: Au(III) >> Pt(IV), Pd(II). The recovery factors for gold, platinum, and palladium ions after 6 h of transport were 94%, 8%, and 1%, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Membrane Technologies for the Treatment of Industrial Wastewater and Emerging Contaminants: Challenges and Innovations)

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18 pages, 4852 KB

Open AccessArticle

Versatile Use of the Small Tubular Reactor and Introduction of a Novel Design Reactor for Rapid Synthesis of Silicalite-1 Membranes

by Rizqan Jamal, Yuta Kayukawa, Ryouki Kitamura, Manabu Miyamoto, Yasuhisa Hasegawa, Yasunori Oumi and Shigeyuki Uemiya

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030091 - 2 Mar 2026

Viewed by 1152

Abstract

The rapid synthesis of high-performance silicalite-1 membranes was systematically investigated by examining the effects of seed size, solution volume, and reactor configuration on membrane growth, microstructure, and gas separation performance. Silicalite-1 seeds (~100 nm and ~1 µm) were dip-coated onto capillary α-alumina supports, [...] Read more.

The rapid synthesis of high-performance silicalite-1 membranes was systematically investigated by examining the effects of seed size, solution volume, and reactor configuration on membrane growth, microstructure, and gas separation performance. Silicalite-1 seeds (~100 nm and ~1 µm) were dip-coated onto capillary α-alumina supports, followed by secondary growth under controlled conditions. Small seeds (~100 nm) produced high nucleation density, uniform intergrowth, and defect-free membranes, yielding consistently high ideal separation factor for H₂/SF₆ (181–295) and low SF₆ permeance (~10⁻⁹ mol m⁻² s⁻¹ Pa⁻¹) after only 45 min of synthesis. In contrast, larger seeds (~1 µm) enabled faster growth but resulted in less uniform layers with inferior selectivity. Furthermore, a novel reactor design with enhanced heat transfer enabled the rapid silicalite-1 membrane synthesis on conventional large-diameter tubular supports, producing well-intergrown and uniform membranes with high H₂ permeance (4.7 × 10⁻⁶ mol m⁻² s⁻¹ Pa⁻¹) and high ideal separation factors of up to 349 for H₂/SF₆ and 223 for N₂/SF₆. Overall, this study demonstrates that optimization of seed properties, synthesis parameters, and reactor design enables rapid and scalable fabrication of silicalite-1 membranes with robust molecular sieving performance, highlighting their strong potential for SF₆ purification applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue High-Performance Composite Membrane for Gas Separation and Capture)

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24 pages, 3342 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Irreversible Thermodynamics and Response Surface Methodology to Elucidate Nitrate Transport in Nanofiltration and Reverse Osmosis Membranes

by Hajar Zeggar, Soufian El-Ghzizel, Mustapha Tahaikt and Mohamed Taky

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030090 - 2 Mar 2026

Viewed by 1004

Abstract

This study employs an integrated modeling approach to elucidate the mechanisms of nitrate ion transport through nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. The investigation first applied models from irreversible thermodynamics, specifically the Kedem–Katchalsky and Spiegler–Kedem models, to describe convective/diffusive contributions and the [...] Read more.

This study employs an integrated modeling approach to elucidate the mechanisms of nitrate ion transport through nanofiltration (NF) and reverse osmosis (RO) membranes. The investigation first applied models from irreversible thermodynamics, specifically the Kedem–Katchalsky and Spiegler–Kedem models, to describe convective/diffusive contributions and the impact of the initial nitrate concentration (50–150 mg/L) on phenomenological parameters (reflection coefficient σ, and solute permeability P_s). The results revealed a marked sensitivity of NF membranes to the initial nitrate concentration, in contrast to the stable performance of RO membranes. To deepen this analysis, Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used as a robust statistical tool to systematically model and quantify the synergistic effects of the initial concentration and other key operational parameters, transmembrane pressure (TMP) and recovery rate (Y) on NF performance. The results highlight the complementarity between transport modelling and statistical approaches for analysing nitrate rejection and permeate flux. The proposed approach provides useful insight into NF membrane-specific behaviour and relative sensitivity to operating conditions, within the scope and limitations of the studied membrane and experimental configurations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Membrane Desalination and Sustainable Technology Systems)

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30 pages, 2437 KB

Open AccessReview

Recent Advances in Stimuli-Responsive Membranes: From Supramolecular Design to Controlled Permeability

by Samanta Moffa, Serena Pilato, Michele Ciulla, Pietro Di Profio, Antonella Fontana, Fabrizio Masciulli and Gabriella Siani

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030089 - 28 Feb 2026

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2460

Abstract

Stimuli-responsive liposomal membranes have attracted growing interest as dynamic soft materials capable of regulating permeability, fusion, and cargo release in response to external or internal triggers. By incorporating functional molecular or nanostructured guests, such as photochromic compounds, plasmonic nanoparticles, or ionizable lipids, bilayers [...] Read more.

Stimuli-responsive liposomal membranes have attracted growing interest as dynamic soft materials capable of regulating permeability, fusion, and cargo release in response to external or internal triggers. By incorporating functional molecular or nanostructured guests, such as photochromic compounds, plasmonic nanoparticles, or ionizable lipids, bilayers can be endowed with reversible and tunable properties. These modifications often rely on the precise control of lipid packing, phase behaviour, and the formation of transient membrane defects that facilitate molecular transport. This review aims to provide an overview of the molecular design strategies and underlying mechanisms used to engineer such responsive liposomal systems, with particular emphasis on light- and heat-triggered behaviours and on supramolecular approaches that modulate membrane structure and dynamics. Emerging trends, current limitations, and opportunities for future development in functional lipid-based materials and biointerfaces will also be discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Membrane Applications for Other Areas)

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13 pages, 1958 KB

Open AccessArticle

Functional Prediction of AT5G35460 Reveals Its Regulatory Role in Reproductive Development and Lipid Remodeling in Arabidopsis thaliana

by Muhammad Asif Shabbir, Mustansar Mubeen, Muhammad Umer, Aqleem Abbas, Amjad Ali, Sarmad Ali Qureshi, Muhammad Junaid Rao, Yasir Iftikhar, Esmael M. Alyami and Ahmed Ezzat Ahmed

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030088 - 28 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1262

Abstract

Membrane lipid remodeling plays a pivotal role in regulating plant growth, reproductive development, and adaptive responses to environmental stress. However, several lipid-modifying enzymes remain uncharacterized in Arabidopsis thaliana. Here, we provide the first comprehensive in silico functional characterization of the unannotated gene [...] Read more.

Membrane lipid remodeling plays a pivotal role in regulating plant growth, reproductive development, and adaptive responses to environmental stress. However, several lipid-modifying enzymes remain uncharacterized in Arabidopsis thaliana. Here, we provide the first comprehensive in silico functional characterization of the unannotated gene AT5G35460, integrating domain architecture, AlphaFold-supported structural validation, and phylogenetic, expression, and regulatory analyses. Domain architecture and conserved DUF2838 signatures, together with transmembrane topology and validation using AlphaFold-predicted structural data, support its identity as a glycerophosphocholine acyltransferase (GPCAT1). Phylogenetic reconstruction showed that GPCAT1 clustered closely with its orthologs of major angiosperms, suggesting deep evolutionary preservation. Expression profiling revealed over a tenfold higher transcript abundance in mature pollen, detected 6–8 times more than during leaf senescence, indicating strong developmental control. Co-expression network analysis revealed links to the lipid metabolism genes (CDS2, LACS8, and SBH1) as well as factors involved in response to stress, indicating that AT5G35460 may act at the level of phosphatidylcholine remodeling, membrane resistance and stress response. Analysis of the promoter sequences showed AACTAAA, ABRE and G-box elements (pollen-specific, ABA-responsive and stress-inducible motif respectively), suggesting appropriate transcriptional regulation consistent with its expression profile. As a whole, the findings revealed that AT5G35460 is an unexplored membrane-localized acyltransferase involved in lipid maintenance during reproductive development and environmental responses. This study serves as a basis for subsequent functional characterization and identifies AT5G35460 as a potential target for modifying pollen viability, senescence kinetics and stress tolerance in plants. Full article

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18 pages, 2687 KB

Open AccessArticle

Synergistic Interfacial Design of Cation Exchange Membranes via Sequential Electro-Assembly for High-Efficiency Lithium Separation

by Zhibo Zhang, Geting Xu, Yangbo Qiu, Junbin Liao, Tong Mu, Wanji Zhou, Yunfang Gao, Jianquan Weng and Jiangnan Shen

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030087 - 28 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1317

Abstract

The industrial application of modified ion-exchange membranes is limited by complex, discontinuous ex-situ processes. This study introduces an in-situ electro-assembly strategy that enables the direct fabrication of a selective layer within an electrodialysis stack without disassembly. By utilizing a programmed current reversal to [...] Read more.

The industrial application of modified ion-exchange membranes is limited by complex, discontinuous ex-situ processes. This study introduces an in-situ electro-assembly strategy that enables the direct fabrication of a selective layer within an electrodialysis stack without disassembly. By utilizing a programmed current reversal to orchestrate the sequential deposition of polyethyleneimine (PEI), glutaraldehyde cross-linking, and polystyrene sulfonate (PSS) adsorption, we achieve meticulous interfacial engineering on a commercial cation exchange membrane. Comprehensive characterization confirms the successful construction of a hydrophilic, charge-tuned multilayer, which enhances ion transport kinetics and raises the limiting current density. This method culminates in a membrane with an exceptional Li⁺/Mg²⁺ selectivity of 107.9 and robust stability, retaining a significant selectivity of 47 over 10 cycles in real salt lake brine. This synergistic integration of operational simplicity, interfacial precision, and superior performance establishes a transformative and scalable platform for manufacturing high-performance membranes for selective ion separation from complex brine sources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Electrodialysis and Novel Electro-Membrane Processes)

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26 pages, 3008 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of Forward Osmosis for Oil Refinery Effluent Desalination Using Response Surface Methodology

by Elorm Obotey Ezugbe, Sudesh Rathilal and Emmanuel Kweinor Tetteh

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030086 - 28 Feb 2026

Viewed by 744

Abstract

Repurposing usage of oil refinery wastewater with retrofitted desalination technology necessitates the optimization of a forward osmosis (FO) technology. Herein, factors such as draw solution concentration (DS-C) and feed and draw solution flow rates (FS-FR, DS-FR) play significant roles. In this study, the [...] Read more.

Repurposing usage of oil refinery wastewater with retrofitted desalination technology necessitates the optimization of a forward osmosis (FO) technology. Herein, factors such as draw solution concentration (DS-C) and feed and draw solution flow rates (FS-FR, DS-FR) play significant roles. In this study, the individualistic and interaction effects of these factors were explored to ascertain the FO performance. The effects of these operating factors, DS-C (20–50 g/L), DS-FR (7.5–9.4 L/h), and FS-FR (7.5–9.4 L/h), and their interactive effects on the permeation flux and rejection of Cl⁻, SO₄²⁻ and CO₃²⁻ from oil refinery effluent, were studied using the Box–Behnken design (BBD) of response surface methodology (RSM). Statistical models were developed to optimize the operating conditions. The analysis of variance and the developed response models were used to evaluate the data at a 95% confidence level. Three confirmatory runs were conducted based on the optimum conditions (FS-FR: 9.2 L/h; DS-FR: 9.4 L/h; DS-C: 32.6 g/L). At a desirability of 81%, average rejections of 94.59 ± 0.32% for CO₃²⁻ and 100% for SO₄²⁻ were obtained. Average Cl⁻ enrichment was 35.5 ± 5.15% and average permeation flux of 3.64 ± 0.13 L/m² h were achieved, suggesting that RSM was a suitable tool for optimizing FO for desalinating the effluent. In addition, the average recovered permeation flux of 86.01 ± 2.66% demonstrated the effectiveness of the FO membrane after cleaning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Membrane Technologies for the Treatment of Industrial Wastewater and Emerging Contaminants: Challenges and Innovations)

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16 pages, 1703 KB

Open AccessArticle

Impedance-Controlled Molecular Transport Across Multilayer Skin Membranes

by Slobodanka Galovic, Milena Cukic Radenkovic and Edin Suljovrujic

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030085 - 27 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1094

Abstract

Analytical models of transdermal drug delivery (TDD) often represent deeper skin layers using ideal sink assumptions or phenomenological interfacial resistances. While mathematically convenient, these approaches obscure the physical role of the dermis and hypodermis in controlling molecular transport. Here, we develop an impedance-based [...] Read more.

Analytical models of transdermal drug delivery (TDD) often represent deeper skin layers using ideal sink assumptions or phenomenological interfacial resistances. While mathematically convenient, these approaches obscure the physical role of the dermis and hypodermis in controlling molecular transport. Here, we develop an impedance-based analytical model for diffusion across multilayer skin membranes, in which the epidermal barrier is dynamically coupled to a finite diffusive backing layer representing the dermis–hypodermis composite. Diffusion impedance links transport conductivity, storage capacity, and layer thickness, while preserving continuity of concentration and flux at all interfaces. Closed-form expressions in the Laplace domain describe concentration fields and interfacial fluxes, and cumulative drug uptake is computed in the time domain via inverse Laplace transformation. The model identifies distinct short- and long-time transport regimes. Commonly used Dirichlet and Robin boundary conditions emerge as limiting cases but cannot reproduce the regime-dependent behavior of a backing layer. In particular, Robin formulations reduce the backing layer to a constant effective resistance, neglecting its storage capacity and time-dependent impedance. By replacing ad hoc boundary conditions with a physically grounded impedance framework, this approach provides a unified and extensible method for analyzing multilayer transport systems, including extensions to anomalous or memory-dependent diffusion. Full article

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13 pages, 2804 KB

Open AccessArticle

Selective Capture and Continuous Recovery of Sulfur-Containing Molecules from Flowing Wastewater Using a Capillary Ag₂Mo₃O₁₀·1.8H₂O/Carbon Fiber Membrane System

by Lei-Yang Xue, Chu-Ya Luo, Han-Mei Xu, Jia-Xin Hua, Xue Zhang, Lian-Wen Zhu and Jun Wu

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030084 - 26 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 800

Abstract

This work presents a novel, membrane-inspired hybrid framework composed of Ag₂Mo₃O₁₀·1.8H₂O nanowires grown in situ on carbon fiber cloth (CFC) for the continuous and selective recovery of high-value sulfur-containing molecules from organic wastewater. The framework [...] Read more.

This work presents a novel, membrane-inspired hybrid framework composed of Ag₂Mo₃O₁₀·1.8H₂O nanowires grown in situ on carbon fiber cloth (CFC) for the continuous and selective recovery of high-value sulfur-containing molecules from organic wastewater. The framework forms an integrated hierarchical porous network rich in micro-/nano-channels, which facilitates efficient, capillary-driven water transport. Owing to its mesoporous texture and specific Ag–S coordination affinity, the material shows exceptional selectivity toward sulfur-containing dyes, enabling rapid adsorption (>94% removal of methylene blue within 10 min) and high specificity in mixed solutions. The hybrid also exhibits excellent reusability, maintaining high recovery efficiency over repeated adsorption–desorption cycles. When configured into a continuous-flow system, the framework operates without external pressure and achieves a water transport rate of 1875 mL·h⁻¹·m⁻². These findings underscore the potential of the Ag₂Mo₃O₁₀·1.8H₂O/CFC hybrid as an efficient, scalable, and sustainable platform for resource-oriented wastewater treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Materials and Nanotechnology for Efficient Membrane Separation Processes)

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12 pages, 2135 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Perfluorinated Ionomer Dispersion Preparation: Autoclaving vs. High-Pressure Homogenizing

by Sofia M. Morozova, Nataliia V. Talagaeva, Nadezhda N. Dremova, Ulyana M. Zavorotnaya, Andrey S. Starikov, Nikita A. Emelianov, Evgeny A. Sanginov, Alexander M. Korsunsky, Alexey V. Levchenko and Alexey V. Vinyukov

Membranes 2026, 16(3), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes16030083 - 26 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1349

Abstract

Perfluorinated sulfonic acid ionomer (PFSAI) dispersions are widely used for fabrication of ion-conducting membranes and catalyst layers for hydrogen fuel cells. The conformation and concentration of PFSAIs affect the properties of the final product and depend on the liquid phase in dispersion. Here [...] Read more.

Perfluorinated sulfonic acid ionomer (PFSAI) dispersions are widely used for fabrication of ion-conducting membranes and catalyst layers for hydrogen fuel cells. The conformation and concentration of PFSAIs affect the properties of the final product and depend on the liquid phase in dispersion. Here we present a novel method of preparing water/alcohol dispersions based on Nafion and Aquivion PFSAI by using a high-pressure homogenizer. The proposed route is faster and much safer and allows achieving higher PFSAI concentrations in comparison with the autoclave technique used for commercial dispersion preparation. The comparison of dispersion viscosity and PFSAI aggregate size was performed for both techniques and demonstrated similar values. Analysis of the morphology of membranes obtained from different dispersions by the casting method revealed differences in structure, which disappeared after annealing. These results highlight an important novel method of preparing PFSAI dispersions and the use of membrane morphology analysis for membrane quality evaluation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Membrane Design for Hydrogen Technologies)

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Membranes, Volume 16, Issue 3 (March 2026) – 36 articles

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