PAN/PSU/SiO2 Nanofiber Membranes: Characterization and Prospects for Air Filtration
Rizky Aflaha (a), Linda Ardita Putri (a), Aditya Rianjanu (b), Roto Roto (c), Kuwat Triyana (a*)

a) Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Sekip Utara, BLS 21, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia.
*triyana[at]ugm.ac.id (K.T)
b) Department of Materials Engineering, Institut Teknologi Sumatera, Terusan Ryacudu, Way Hui, Jati Agung, Lampung 35365, Indonesia
c) Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Sekip Utara, BLS 21, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia

Abstract

In recent times, the employment of nanofibers as membranes for air filtration has garnered significant attention, primarily due to their promising performance attributes. This study focuses on the realm of air filtration by investigating polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers that have been enriched with polysulfone and silicon dioxide (SiO2). The central objective is to uncover the inherent potential of these composite nanofibers as air filtration membranes. The study comprehensively analyzes the distinctive properties inherent in the fabricated nanofibers. Through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), intricate details regarding the morphological features of the nanofibers are unveiled, offering valuable insights into their underlying structural characteristics. In parallel, the study employs Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis to delve into the chemical composition of the doped nanofibers, thereby illuminating critical factors that influence their filtration performance. An indispensable facet of filtration membranes is their interaction with water, a characteristic addressed through water contact angle (WCA) measurements. The amalgamation of these multifaceted attributes uniquely situates the fabricated nanofibers as prime contenders for the role of air filtration membranes. Notably, their capacity to proficiently repel water and nuanced comprehension of their structural configuration, composition, and hydrophobic nature collectively bestow an elevated potential for enhanced filtration efficiency. These tailored nanofibers, fashioned through the amalgamation of polyacrylonitrile, polysulfone, and silicon dioxide, augur a compelling solution for the intricate realm of advanced air filtration applications. The fabricated nanofibers manifest themselves as a promising avenue for future air filtration advancements by harnessing the synergistic interplay of these distinct elements.

Keywords: Nanofibers- Polyacrylonitrile- Polysulfone- Silicone dioxide- air filtration

Topic: Material Physics