Synergistic prevention of biofouling in seawater desalination by zwitterionic surfaces and low-level chlorination.

ABSTRACT: Smooth, durable, ultrathin antifouling layers are deposited onto commercial reverse osmosis membranes without damaging them and they exhibit a fouling reduction. A new synergistic approach to antifouling, by coupling surface modification and drinking-water-level chlorination is enabled by the films' unique resistance against chlorine degradation. This approach substantially enhances longer-term fouling resistance compared with surface modification or chlorination alone, and can reduce freshwater production cost and its collateral toxicity to marine biota.

SUBMITTER: Yang R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4041402 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature