The fragmented 3D-covalent organic framework in cellulose acetate membrane for efficient phenol removal

The membrane-based separation of molecular pollutants has several advantages such as minimum energy uti-lization, recyclability, and commercial viability. However, the membrane fabrications should be in line with the suitable porosity, functionality, mechanical strength, and economical for their practical applications. Herein, we report a novel hybrid membrane (TamDbta-CA) of low-cost cellulose acetate (CA) polymer and functionally diverse porous defective 3D-COF (TamDbta) for the removal of toxic phenol from industrially relevant synthetic oil-produced water. The low percentage (0.8%) use of TamDbta as pillars in CA-membranes improved the porosity, hydrophilicity, mechanical strength, and separation efficiency of phenol (similar to 80 to 90 %). The defective functional sites (-C=O and -Br) and nanoporosity of TamDbta and its uniform distribution throughout the mixed-matrix membrane contributed to the enhancement of membrane performance. The strategic membrane design and its efficient use for removing toxic pollutants may pave the way for using COFs as a pillar in commercially viable membranes.