Graft Polymerization of Allylamine for the Modification of PET Track-Etched Membrane

Abstract

Track-etched membranes (TMs), characterized by their precisely controlled pore size, geometry, and distribution, offer a promising platform for the development of advanced membrane systems and serve as model membranes for testing and optimizing surface modification techniques. This study presents a perspective modification of poly(ethylene terephthalate) track-etched membranes (PET TM) based on photo-induced graft polymerization of allylamine (AlAm) to introduce primary amine groups on the membrane surface. The polymerization process was optimized by evaluating key parameters, including reaction time, monomer concentration, solvent, and distance from UV-lamp. Optimal conditions for photoinduced graft polymerization were found: grafting time 60 minutes, AlAm monomer concentration 50 %, 2-propanol as a solvent and distance to UV lamp 10 cm. These parameters allowed effective modification of the polymer while maintaining the integrity of the membrane porous structure. The modified membranes were characterized using SEM-EDX, ATR FTIR, and UVspectroscopy. The results demonstrate the successful fabrication of membranes with a high amino group content (up to 10.6±0.3 μmol/g) while preserving their porous structure. This functionalization enhances the practical potential for the environment and biomedical fields.