Synergistic performance of polyethersulfone membranes embedded with graphene oxide‐zinc oxide nanocomposites for efficient heavy metal and dye removal with strong antibacterial properties

Abstract

AbstractWater pollution caused by heavy metal ions (HMI) and dyes is a global issue challenging current solutions. Membrane filtration shows promise, yet faces limitations like fouling and low flux. This study proposes a new membrane by incorporating graphene oxide zinc oxide (GO‐ZnO) nanocomposites into a polyethersulfone (PES) matrix to overcome these challenges. The synthesized membrane exhibits strong antimicrobial activity, crucial for water treatment, and high efficiency in removing HMIs (Cu2+ and Ni2+) and dyes (BB9 and EBT) from water samples and industrial wastewater. Characterization via FTIR and FESEM confirms its chemical composition and morphology, while contact angle measurements assess its hydrophilicity. Mechanical strength tests ensure durability. Overall, the membrane demonstrates exceptional antimicrobial activity, pollutant removal efficiency, and mechanical robustness, highlighting the potential of integrating GO‐ZnO nanoparticles into PES membranes for water treatment.Highlights Synthesis of innovative PES membrane embedded with GO‐ZnO for durable and fast energy‐saving filtration. Thorough Membrane Characterization and its various applications with mechanisms. Efficient Heavy Metal and Dye Removal, Inherent Antibacterial Prowess.