NYU Abu Dhabi has created a new membrane technology for improved water purification.

A team of researchers from New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) has developed a new approach that uses microwave technology to synthesize and fine-tune a novel type of membrane for water purification. This technique allows for the quick creation of covalent organic framework (COF) membranes, making it one of the fastest methods available.

These membranes act as filters in devices designed to clean polluted water from specific contaminants, which is important for addressing water scarcity. The new dual-faced membrane has unique superhydrophilic and near-hydrophobic surfaces, enabling efficient removal of contaminants like oils and dyes from water. This functionality enhances filtration and gives the membranes strong antibacterial properties.

The study, titled "Tunable Wettability of a Dual-Faced COF Membrane for Enhanced Water Filtration," was published in the Journal of the American Chemical Society. The approach was developed by Farah Benyettou and Asmaa Jrad under the leadership of Ali Trabolsi, Professor of Chemistry and Co-Principal Investigator at the NYUAD Water Research Centre.

The team's one-step microwave-mediated synthesis allows for precise control over the membrane's properties without the need for subsequent modifications.