Gita Anggia Puspita, Ni’matul Izza, Thanitporn Narkkun, Kajornsak Faungnawakij, Muhammad Roil Bilad, Bambang Dwi Argo, Yusuf Wibisono
The increasing demand for clean water necessitates advancements in membrane technology, particularly in mitigating biofouling, which reduces efficiency and increases operational costs. This study optimizes the fabrication parameters of cellulose acetate membranes impregnated with Moringa oleifera seed powder, a natural antibacterial agent, using the Taguchi method. Key fabrication variables—solvent type (DMF, DMAC, DMSO), Moringa oleifera concentration (0.5%, 0.75%, 1%), and membrane casting thickness (0.2 mm, 0.3 mm, 0.4 mm)—were analyzed to enhance mechanical strength, hydrophilicity, pore size, and water permeability. Results indicate that DMF as the solvent, a 0.75% Moringa oleifera concentration, and a 0.4 mm casting thickness yielded the most balanced membrane properties, ensuring improved antifouling resistance and water permeability. FTIR analysis confirmed the integration of Moringa oleifera phenolic compounds, enhancing antimicrobial functionality. Statistical optimization through ANOVA validated the significant impact of fabrication parameters on membrane performance. The findings highlight the potential of incorporating natural antibacterial agents in membranes to improve sustainability in water treatment applications. This study advances bio-based membrane technology, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional antifouling strategies. © Qatar University and Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025.
Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Universitas Brawijaya, Jl. Veteran Malang, Malang, 65145, Indonesia; National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National Science and Technology Agency (NSTDA), Pathum Thani, Khlong Nueng, Klong Laung, 12120, Thailand; Faculty of Integrated Technologies, Universiti Brunei Darussalam, Jalan Tungku Link, BE1410, Brunei Darussalam; MILI Institute for Water Research, Kawasan Industri Jababeka, Cikarang Utara, Bekasi, 17530, Indonesia
