Mixed Matrix Membranes for Water Purification Applications

Membrane technology has been utilized for water purification application for a long time. Both polymeric and ceramic membranes have been center of interest for their tremendous contribution in this area. Despite their advantages, these synthetic membranes have limitations in terms of performance and durability. To meet the new demands and standards, mixed matrix membranes (MMM) have gained serious importance due to their ability to combine the features of the aforementioned membrane materials, offering better solutions in terms of performance, fouling, permeate quality and longevity. Besides such attractive features, MMMs have not yet reached sufficient maturity to challenge conventional membranes commercially. This review categorizes MMMs on its filler basis into four types; (i) inorganic filler-based MMMs, (ii) organic filler-based MMMs, (iii) biofillers-based MMMd, and (iv) hybrid filler-based MMMs. A discussion is extended to modules and cost of these membranes along with the specific applications of each type of fillers. It also identifies the issues and challenges in the MMM area and highlights the domains that remain to be investigated.