Preparation and characterization of PES and PSU membrane humidifiers

Polysulfone (PSU) and polyethersulfone (PES) porous membranes; and mixed polymer with nanoparticles TiO2, were prepared for air humidification. The mechanical properties and morphology of these membranes were studied by Tensile tester and SEM/EDX. The effects of membrane composition and operating factors on humidifier performance were investigated. The results revealed that the membrane composition and its structure have significant effect on humidification. The porous membranes with finger type cavities had higher humidification performance but lower mechanical properties. Water flux of the membranes was about 0.16–0.2 L/h m2 at 25 °C. Furthermore, adding 0.1 wt% TiO2 nanoparticles to casting solution enhanced the humidification. Water flux of the membranes with TiO2 nanoparticles was about 0.18–0.22 L/h m2 at 25 °C. Relative humidity of outlet gas was decreased by increasing the gas flow rate and pressure. An increase in system temperature caused the relative humidity of the outlet gas to decrease.