Unlocking synergies of Mg(OH)2 and rice husk silica as dual additives for tailored pore properties, selectivity, and antifouling performances of PES membrane

•Selectivity of PES membranes is enhanced using Mg(OH)2 & rice husk silica additives.•The combined additive generated membrane with desirable morphology.•The modified PES membrane with 60.7 % porosity achieved.•Exceptional FRR of 84.7 % demonstrates antifouling capability.•Promising hybrid additives for advanced membrane fabrication. This research investigates the synergistic impact of incorporating Mg(OH)2 and rice husk silica additives during membrane fabrication to enhance both selectivity and resistance to fouling. The main objective is to harness the enhanced hydrophilicity provided by both additives to elevate membrane characteristics and performance, while also addressing the individual limitations of each additive when used separately. The introduction of Mg(OH)2 and silica is performed on the polyethersulfone (PES) membrane via blending method. The findings of the research show that combination of Mg(OH)2 and silica as additive result in exceptional attributes of the PES membrane, in comparison to membranes modified with each additive separately. This membrane demonstrates outstanding characteristics, including a remarkable porosity of 60.7 %, and exceptional antifouling capability, as evidenced by an impressive Flux Recovery Ratio (FRR) of 84.7 %, thereby enhancing its practical utility. These collective findings underscore the remarkable potential of combining Mg(OH)2 and rice husk silica as beneficial hybrid additives for membrane fabrication. The synergistic approach holds great promise for enhancing membrane properties and overcoming constraints associated with the individual application of each additive.