Singapore researchers develop multifunction water filtration membrane

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) start-up Nano Sun in Singapore has developed a multifunction water filtration membrane, which is claimed to be cost-effective while offering better performance.

The new membrane is claimed to have anti-bacterial and anti-biofouling properties, and last twice as long as conventional membranes, while also resistant to breakage.

Researchers also claim that the new membrane can have a flow rate ten times faster than conventional membranes.

Based on a patented titanium dioxide nanotechnology, the new membrane is claimed to kill bacteria and can break down organic compounds in wastewater with the help of sunlight or ultra-violet (UV) rays.

NTU School of Civil and Environmental Engineering associate professor Darren Sun and NTU Nanyang Business School adjunct professor Wong Ann Chai are the co-founders of the start-up.

Professor Darren Sun said: "With more of the world’s population moving into urban cities and generating more wastewater, there is a real need for cost-effective technology.

"Traditional polymer-based water filtration membranes are faced with issues such as fouling and high breakage, while the developing countries with high industrial output are generating wastewater that is increasingly harder to treat.

"What the world needs, and what we have developed, is a breakthrough technology that can turn large volumes of polluted or untreated water into drinking water quickly, safely and at a fraction of the cost."

Nano Sun is also planning to develop a smaller membrane, which could be used in products in households, humanitarian aid and disaster relief.

Professor Wong Ann Chai said: "Apart from household filters, we are also working to develop a low-cost water purification water bottle, for use in developing countries and for disaster relief efforts."

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Image: NTU associate professor Darren Sun (right) and managing director Wong Ann Chai (left) with Nano Sun’s 3D-printed innovative multiuse membrane. Photo: courtesy of Nanyang Technological University.