Polymeric membranes for industrial applications: Recent progress, challenges and perspectives

Polymeric membranes have become essential in addressing various industrial challenges in water purification, gas separation, pharmaceuticals, food packaging, protein purification, and more. This comprehensive review explores the extensive world of polymeric membranes, emphasizing the critical role of chemistry in their development and deployment. Nowadays, chemistry plays a significant role in the life of polymeric membranes. In this work, we have studied the importance of chemistry in membrane applications, concentrating on industrial applications. Polymeric membranes have emerged as indispensable tools for addressing pressing environmental and energy-related issues, with their versatility enabling solutions across various sectors. Due to the multiple advantages like reasonable cost, excellent processibility, easy operation, and no side product, polymeric membranes are applied in most industrial applications. Improvement in polymeric membrane processing is critical for realizing the potential of promising polymer chemistry and structure. In this article, we highlighted the role of polymer chemistry in membrane technology applications. This review article is a valuable resource for researchers to understand the symbiotic relationship between polymer chemistry and the ever-expanding domain of industrial membrane applications. By enlightening recent progress, highlighting ongoing challenges, and offering insights into future directions, it fosters an enriched appreciation for the vital role of chemistry in shaping the membranes that underpin modern industrial processes. [Display omitted] •The role of polymeric membranes in various industrial applications has been studied.•The importance of chemistry in membrane separation and purification has been focused.•Polymeric membrane's antibacterial activity and antifouling ability have been discussed.•Highlighted ongoing challenges and development and offers insights into future directions.