Nanoparticles in Polysulfone/Polyvinylpyrrolidone Hollow Fiber Membranes

The aim of this study is to enhance the functionality of polysulfone / polyvinylpyrrolidone (PS/PVP) hollow fiber membranes (HFM) by nucleating metallic nanoparticles (NPs) in the PS/PVP spin mass which subsequently partition to the HFM surface during membrane synthesis. The size, shape, and distribution of the different NPs nucleated and immobilized within the HFMs of the NPs will be assessed using multiple modalities. The NPs stability in the membranes will also be investigated in aqueous solutions. From this research procedures to nucleate metallic nanoparticles in polymer membranes will be developed, imparting intrinsic antimicrobial activity to the membranes for applications in hemodialysis, bioprocessing, water filtration and purification, and bioprocessing. For the latter direction the embedded metallic nanoparticles can be readily addressed with an array of chemical functionalities through histidine-metal coordination chemistry. Producing HFMs with addressable sites will allow a wide variety of functionalities to be explored as agents that can selectively remove, or selectively release target molecules. Recombinant proteins specific for toxins, hormones, or peptides provide a library of options for introducing specific binding and release capabilities into the HFMs. This provides a first step toward a smart material surface. The NPs will also allow for applications in downstream processing of recombinant proteins by leveraging the high surface areas of the HFM. In summary, this research will introduce new functionalities into HFM primarily for applications in hemodialysis, but also having direct relevance to water filtration,bioprocessing, and cell encapsulation