Anti-fouling graphene membrane for organic acid separation
Introducing a cutting-edge anti-fouling graphene membrane with customizable nanopores for efficient organic acid separation from fermentation broths. This technology enhances selectivity and membrane lifespan by tuning surface charge to repel fouling proteins.
Overview
This innovative solution features a graphene membrane designed for the precise separation of organic acids from fermentation broths. The membrane incorporates customizable Angstrom-scale nanopores that allow for the efficient passage of small organic acid molecules while rejecting larger macromolecules and proteins. By tuning the surface charge of the membrane with an electric field, this technology mitigates protein fouling, enhancing selectivity and extending the lifespan of the membrane. This makes the separation process more efficient and reduces the need for frequent membrane changes.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Customizable nanopores: Precisely engineered to accommodate specific organic acid molecules while preventing the passage of larger components.
- Anti-fouling surface: Charge tuning capability repels proteins, maintaining a steady flow and reducing fouling.
- High conductivity: Enables effective charge control for enhanced separation selectivity.
The membrane fabrication involves calculating the required nanopore sizes, predicting reaction conditions using a mathematical model, and adapting to existing membrane substrates. Initial tests will focus on evaluating the separation efficiency and fouling resistance of the membrane.
Technology readiness level
This technology is currently at Technology Readiness Level 3, indicating that it is in the experimental proof of concept stage. The research team plans to conduct further experiments to validate the separation efficiency and anti-fouling capabilities in real-world conditions over the next year.
About University of Bath
The University of Bath is a research‑intensive public university in Bath, England, with a campus‑based, mid‑sized profile and a strong record of collaboration with business and the public sector. Industry engagement is built into its model through extensive professional placements that embed students in corporate R&D and through collaborative facilities available to partners; its location in the Bristol–Bath innovation corridor gives access to a dense tech and advanced engineering cluster. A dedicated Research and Innovation Services unit and corporate partnerships team broker sponsored research, consultancy, and facility access, while a university‑backed incubator within the SETsquared partnership connects companies to mentors, investors, and talent. Research is supported by competitive funding from UK Research and Innovation councils and Innovate UK, alongside European programmes. Commercialization is managed by a technology transfer team that supports IP, licensing, and spinout formation.
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