High-Performance Multifunctional TiO2 Nanowire Ultrafiltration Membrane with a Hierarchical Layer Structure for Water Treatment

A novel, multifunctional TiO2 nanowire ultrafiltration (UF) membrane with a layered hierarchical structure is made via alkaline hydrothermal synthesis, followed by a filtration and hot‐press process. The TiO2 UF membrane has high surface porosity (21.3%) and pore size values around 20 nm. The membrane possesses multifunctional capabilities under UV irradiation, such as anti‐fouling, anti‐bacterial, concurrent separation, and photocatalytic oxidation. The unique properties of the membrane indicate its potential in applications for environmental purification. A multifunctional TiO2 nanowire ultrafiltration (UF) membrane with a layered hierarchical structure is successfully fabricated via a simple and general method. The crystal phase, morphology, permeability and photocatalytic activity of the TiO2 nanowire membrane are thoroughly investigated. Experimental results show that the membrane possesses unique properties, such as a high membrane flux and anti‐fouling and anti‐bacterial characteristics, making it promising for applications in environmental purification.