Performance of Electrified MXene Membranes in Real Wastewater Applications

Nanoplastic (NP) contamination in wastewater is a growing environmental concern, requiring innovative and scalable treatment. Electrified membranes have emerged as a promising approach for NP removal by leveraging electrostatic repulsion and electrocoagulation mechanisms. In this study, we investigate the performance of a MXene-based membrane for NP filtration, focusing on the effects of real wastewater conditions. Results show that the applied electric field significantly improved NP rejection, achieving high removal efficiency, while increasing water flux compared to non-electrified conditions. Intermittent ON/OFF operation effectively mitigated fouling and maintained a stable flux over 30 h. This study provides critical insights into the scalability and practical deployment of MXene-based electrified membranes for advanced water treatment. The findings highlight the membrane’s potential for efficient Multi-contaminant removal, antifouling performance, and energy-efficient operation.