Improved antifouling characteristics of acrylonitrile co-polymer membrane by low temperature pulsed ammonia plasma in the treatment of oil–water emulsion

Flat sheet polyacrylonitrile co-polymer membrane was treated by low temperature direct current ammonia plasma to enhance its antifouling characteristics. The surface properties, like, morphology, functional groups and wettability of the membrane were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, fourier transform infrared, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and contact angle. Enhancement in membrane hydrophilicity was monitored as function of...