Novel DDBAC and TiO2 Functionalized Hydrophobic Electrospun Nanofibrous Membranes for Virus Adsorption in Drinking Water Applications

Waterborne pathogens such as enteric viruses have been identified as one of the main threats to sources of drinking water and aquatic ecosystem in Canada and around the world. Current methods to address viral contamination of water all present high degrees of efficiency. However, they also pose significant drawbacks such as release of potentially toxic/carcinogenic byproducts into the environment, high operating cost, or large land footprint. Nanofibre polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes functionalized with TiO2 nanoparticles were developed. They were found to have a bacteriophage MS2 log removal value (LRV) of up to 1.2 likely through hydrophobic interactions and/or contact-inactivation with TiO2. Similarly, nanofibrous PVDF membranes functionalized with dodecyldimethylbenzylammonium chloride (DDBAC) for its positive charge and electrostatic effect were found to have a consistent MS2 LRV of 2.4. These novel membranes could provide a cost effective alternative to other available membrane technologies.M.A.S