Starch-based and multi-purpose nanofibrous membrane for high efficiency nanofiltration

Abstract

The objective of the present work is to develop nanofibrous membranes from rice-flour based nanofibers containing PVA for high efficiency filtration. Rice flour-based biodegradable nanofibrous membranes were prepared by an electrospinning technique. The contents of the rice flour in solution were systematically varied before 25% w/w was set as an optimal condition where good processability, fibers with well-defined morphology and uniform diameter could be successfully achieved for both polymer and polymer nanocomposite. The rice flour nanofibrous membranes allow only tiny particles to pass through (less than 0.1 micron). Likewise, the incorporation of silver nanoparticles and β-cyclodextrin into the nanofibrous membranes leads to improved antimicrobial properties and volatile organic compound adsorption, respectively. The results suggest the potential use of nanofibrous membranes from rice flour blends as low-environmental impact and high performance multipurpose nanofilters. © 2017 The Royal Society of Chemistry.