Hydrophobic Brush Membranes for Filtration Based on Solution-Diffusion Mechanism with Applications to Pervaporation (PV) & Reverse Osmosis (RO) | Available Intellectual Property | Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Hydrophobic Brush Membranes for Filtration Based on Solution-Diffusion Mechanism with Applications to Pervaporation (PV) & Reverse Osmosis (RO)

RPI ID: 2015-029-401, 2015-029-601, 2015-029-602, 2015-029-603

Innovation Summary:
This invention describes a synthetic membrane system designed to purify water and isolate volatile organic compounds. The membrane includes a hydrophobic polymer layer supported by a polymeric substrate, allowing for selective pervaporation or reverse osmosis. The technology enables efficient removal of nonpolar substances from complex mixtures, with high specificity and permeability. This membrane design can also be used in gas fractionation processes for isolating specific molecules. Its modular architecture allows easy adaptation for industrial, environmental, or medical applications. The hydrophobic layer is chemically engineered for durability and selectivity, reducing the need for frequent replacement or pretreatment. It supports continuous processing and is compatible with existing infrastructure.

Challenges / Opportunities:
Traditional membranes often struggle with fouling, low selectivity, or mechanical degradation under industrial conditions. Current water purification systems may require multiple steps or chemical additives to achieve comparable performance. This invention offers a single-step membrane with multi-functional capabilities that can withstand high-throughput operations. Opportunities exist in wastewater recycling, volatile contaminant capture, and sustainable filtration methods across industries. It meets growing regulatory demands for cleaner, more efficient water processing technologies.

Key Benefits / Advantages:
✔ Selective removal of VOCs and salts
✔ Durable under high-pressure conditions
✔ Applicable to both liquid and gas purification

Applications:
• Water purification
• Volatile organic compound separation
• Industrial wastewater treatment

Keywords:
#syntheticmembrane #pervaporation #VOCseparation #reverseosmosis

Intellectual Property:
US Issued Patent(s) 10,118,134 B2, US 10,758,872 B2, US 11,045,772 B2, US 11,065,585 B2
Patent Information: