Research progress in preparation and application of Janus membranes

• Main Authors: REN Bao-na, PI Hao-hong, GU Ying-shu, WANG Rui, ZHANG Xiu-qin, WU Jing
• Format: Article
• Language: zho
• Published: Journal of Materials Engineering 2020-07-01
• Series: Journal of Materials Engineering
• Subjects: janus membrane; asymmetric wettability; unidirectional penetration; separation
• Online Access: http://jme.biam.ac.cn/CN/Y2020/V48/I7/72

Membrane is the basic material in the area of numerous modern separation and energy generation processes. Among various kinds of membranes, Janus membrane, the name of which comes from the ancient Roman mythology that the god exhibits two faces, exhibits superior properties to homogenous membranes by reason of its asymmetric morphology or chemical composition on its two sides. In recent years, with the further exploration and development of Janus membranes, the design, fabrication of Janus membranes and their application in many fields have attracted widespread attention. Herein, the common categories and fabrication of Janus membranes were reviewed. The progress of Janus membranes in unidirectional liquid penetration, oil-water separation and desalination was summarized. Finally, the current challenges in the preparation strategies of Janus membrane were pointed out, such as the different membrane thicknesses required in different application fields, how to achieve the accurate control of the thickness. Meanwhile, the development trend of Janus membrane in oil-water separation, fog collection was prospected.