Structure and properties of 4-aminobenzoic acid-modified polyvinyl chloride and functionalized graphite-based membranes

In this effort, series of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and 4-aminobenzoic acid (4ABA)-modified PVC and functional graphite (FG)-based membranes were prepared. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis were used to confirm PVC and graphite modification and nanocomposite formation. Scanning electron microscopy depicted homogenously layered morphology of modified PVC nanocomposite. Glass-transition temperature (T_g) of non-modified PVC nanocomposite was 243°C, whereas modified nanocomposite with similar FG loading had T_g of 258°C. Higher filler content furnished better hydrophilic membranes. Efficiency of PVC–4ABA-0.5/FG 0.5 membrane was 100% for removal of Hg²⁺ and Pb²⁺. PVC–4ABA-0.5/FG 0.5 membrane with smaller contact angle (30°) is a fine option for water purification.