Innovative membrane technology for water treatment solutions: Current status and future prospects of carbon nanotube membranes

Abstract

Carbon nanotube (CNT)-based membranes are gaining attention for their unique properties and applications in membrane technology. This review comprehensively explores major types of CNT-based membranes—buckypaper, CNT mixed, and vertically aligned CNT membranes—along with their fabrication methods, pore size control strategies, unique properties, and potential applications. Understanding these aspects will help fully harness the potential of CNT-based membranes in addressing challenges in water treatment and other fields. CNTs offer promise as water treatment membranes due to their ability to enhance performance of existing membranes, overcome trade-offs, exhibit antibacterial properties, and facilitate fast water transport.