Electrospun Membranes of Hydrophobic Polyimide and NH2-UiO-66 Nanocomposite for Desalination

Abstract

Hydrophobic nanofiber composite membranes comprising polyimide and metal–organic frameworks are developed for desalination via direct contact membrane distillation (DCMD). Our study demonstrates the synthesis of hydrophobic polyimides with trifluoromethyl groups, along with superhydrophobic UiO-66 (hMOF) prepared by phenylsilane modification on the metal-oxo nodes. These components are then combined to create nanofiber membranes with improved hydrophobicity, ensuring long-term stability while preserving a high water flux. Integration of hMOF into the polymer matrix further increases membrane hydrophobic properties and provides additional pathways for vapor transport during MD. The resulting ..