Temperature-Responsive Polymer Grafted Carbon Nanotubes for Active Control of Mineral Scaling.

Abstract

Scaling presents a major challenge in water treatment industries, reducing operational efficiency and shortening the service life of membranes and plumbing systems. Frequent membrane replacement imposes a substantial economic burden. Traditional scale removal methods, including physical cleaning and chemical treatments, often cause membrane damage, environmental hazards, and additional costs. To address these challenges, this study developed an antideposition, self-cleaning membrane structure for combating scaling in water treatment. The membrane features a poly(<i>N</i>-isopropylacrylamide) coating grafted onto carbon nanotube surfaces, providing dual functionalities: temperature responsiveness and high conductivity. These properties enable polymer motion and bubble generation on the membrane surface upon application of electrical current. The polymer movement effectively reduces deposition during operation, while the bubbles generated during water splitting reactions act as a natural cleaning mechanism. This approach offers a sustainable and efficient solution to scaling issues in water treatment systems.