Protein fouling of modified microporous PET track-etched membranes

The effectiveness of membrane-based separations is limited by fouling of the membrane used. In order to mitigate this effect on PET track-etched membranes (PET TeMs), the methods of oxidation in hydrogen peroxide and radiation induced graft polymerization of acrylic acid (AA) and N-vinylimidazole (VIM) were used. The antifouling properties of the modified PET TeMs have been evaluated using model systems, such as water solutions of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and lysozyme (LYZ). The results showed that oxidation led to improved antifouling properties, whereas graft polymerization of AA and VIM on the contrary, led to increased fouling of the membrane surface. •PET track-etched membranes (TeMs) were hydrophilazed by oxidation.•PET TeMs were hydrophilazed by graft polymerization of polymers.•Influence of parameters on grafting degree were studied, optimal condition was found.•Oxidized membranes showed increasing antifouling properties.