Graphene-based nanofiltration membranes for bio-effluents downstream processing

The urgent demand for efficient and resilient water treatment technologies has accelerated the advancement of nanostructured membranes. Graphene oxide (GO), with its exceptional hydrophilicity, tunable surface chemistry, and antimicrobial properties, provides a promising platform for next-generation nanofiltration membranes. This study provides a systematic evaluation of graphene oxide-functionalized nanofiltration membranes developed by NematiQ Pty Ltd, extending beyond conventional characterization by integrating multi-scale physicochemical analysis with comprehensive assessments of hydraulic performance, fouling behavior, and antiviral filtration under cross-flow operation. Morphological and chemical analyses indicated a structurally robust and hydrophilic membrane surface, with narrow pore size distribution to support effective separation and fouling resistance. Filtration experiments verified the high water permeability, stable operation over time, and robust rejection of macromolecules and bacteria. Particularly remarkable was the membrane's resilience to biofouling and protein fouling, achieving flux recovery ratios exceeding 90 % across repeated cycles. Comparative benchmarking against commercial Ultra Filtration (UF) and Reverse Osmotic (RO) membranes further highlighted the superior flux and antifouling behavior of the graphene-based system. Critically, filtration of bacteriophage SPP1-spiked synthetic wastewater achieved complete viral removal via steric hindrance and electrostatic repulsion. Altogether, these findings demonstrate the viability of graphene-based membranes for advanced water treatment applications, particularly where elevated flux, reduced energy demand, and fouling resistance are critical.