Sulfonated Polyethersulfone(PES)

Sulfonated Polyethersulfone(PES)As the name implies, sulfonated polyethersulfone, SPES, is obtained via a sulfonation reaction, occurring at room temperature in the presence of a mild sulfonating agent.

In the process of polyethersulfone sulfonation, chlorosulfonic acid acts as the sulfonating agent. There is also the need for a solvent in the reaction. This is where concentrated sulfuric acid comes into play.

FTIR confirms the presence of the sulfonic acid group in the sulfonated polyethersulfone. According to a study by thermogravimetric, membranes made from sulfonated polyethersulfone, also show superior thermal stability. This is to say that the membranes can guarantee dimensional stability over a vast range of temperatures.

By using N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone to test the SPES material, it was discovered that the tensile strength of the SPES membrane decreases as you increase the intensity of sulfonation. On the other hand, as the degree of the sulfonation increases, the affinity to water or water intake increases.

Comparing the sulfonated to unsulfonated polyethersulfone membrane, the sulfonated polyethersulfone reigns supreme when it comes to hydrophilicity. This implies that the material's interaction with water is better, and as such, it tends to filter things faster than most of the other materials. This hydrophilic nature was confirmed by a minimal angle of contact when tested with water. The atomic force microscopy phase images also confirm that the sulfonated membranes feature more considerable hydrophilicity at a higher degree of sulfonation.

The SPES membranes are also characterized by amorphous nature. This nature was discovered using the X-ray diffraction technique.

If you’re more than convinced that the sulfonated form of polyethersulfone is for you, be sure to reach out to us at office@polima.com.cn. We will help you identify your particular needs and draft out a plan, quote, and guide to help you bring everything to creative fruition.