AFM for Membrane Analysis

Membranes and filters are essential in all areas of manufacturing to assure purity and consistency of process. The Atomic Force Microscope (AFM) offers a method for directly observing the three dimensional structure of membranes. AFM studies can be used for membrane development as well as monitoring membrane wear associated with use.

The purpose of this study is to simulate compressor contamination in industrial applications and to ascertain the behavioral changes in membranes over time with varying pollutant levels. Pereira and Admassu found that permeability was reduced in polymeric membranes-including poly (carbonate)-with an increase in oil contamination. Moreover, the selectivities of oxygen-nitrogen and methane-carbon dioxide mixes were improved. Several theories were proposed to account for the observed phenomena, and the recent AFM work provides topographical evidence for the manner in which the presence of oil altered the membrane surface structure.