Sequential physicochemical modification of polysulfone membrane for enhanced bioethanol recovery from fermentation broth

A successful membrane-based ultrafiltration method was applied to clarify bioethanol fermentation broth (BFB). Polysulfone (PSf) membranes underwent physicochemical modification using nano-ZnO, UV radiation, and a PVA crosslinked coating. FTIR and XRD analyses confirmed synergistic effects, supported by SEM and AFM images showing increased membrane porosity and a hydrophilic surface layer. The modified membrane exhibited excellent filtration performance with a permeate flux of 60.5 L m−2 h−1, 380 times higher than the neat PSf membrane. This was reinforced by the results of anti-biofouling analysis, which show the lowest FDR value, along with the greatest pollutant removal and lesser ethanol loss. These modifications hold great potential for BFB clarification in various separation processes.