Improving PES Membrane Performance with Hydroxyapatite for Hemodialysis Qibtiyah Rachman1, Yanuardi Raharjo2, and Yusuf Wibisono1, Nimatul Izza1*
1Department of Biosystem Engineering, Faculty of Agricultural Technology, Universitas Brawijaya, Indonesia
2Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, Indonesia
*Email: izza_nimatul[at]ub.ac.id
Abstract
Kidney failure is a disease with a high mortality rate, and hemodialysis is an important treatment to maintain metabolic function. Polyethersulfone (PES) is widely used in hemodialysis membranes because of its thermal and chemical stability, but its hydrophobic nature limits performance. This study aimed to improve PES membrane performance by incorporating hydroxyapatite (HAp), a hydrophilic and biocompatible calcium phosphate compound, into hollow fiber mixed matrix membranes. Membranes were fabricated using PES dissolved in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, with several variations of HAp content. The fabrication process involved particle size reduction, dispersion through sonication, and prolonged stirring to ensure mixing. Performance tests covered kinetic properties (water flux, urea clearance, creatinine clearance), mechanical properties (porosity, tensile strength), and morphology using scanning electron microscopy. The addition of HAp improved membrane hydrophilicity, permeability, and certain mechanical properties. The membrane with moderate HAp loading showed the best balance between high permeability, effective solute clearance, and good mechanical strength. Morphological observations indicated that even dispersion of HAp contributed to better pore structure, while excessive HAp content caused agglomeration and reduced uniformity. In conclusion, incorporating HAp into PES membranes can enhance their suitability for hemodialysis. Optimizing HAp particle size and distribution is recommended to maximize its beneficial effects.
