Title
Hybrid cellulose/graphene oxide nanocomposite membranes for water desalination
Authors
HANANE ABURIDEH, DJAMILA ZIOUI, SARRA HOUT, ZOUBIR BELGROUN, FATMA ZOHRA YAHIAOUI and MOHAMED ABBAS

Received September 29, 2025
Published Volume 60 Issue 1-2 January-February
Keywords cellulose acetate, graphene oxide, membranes, water desalination

Abstract
Desalination via reverse osmosis is emerging as a key technology in response to the growing scarcity of freshwater resources. However, conventional membranes still face limitations in terms of durability, fouling, and low ion selectivity. This study aims to develop hybrid membranes based on cellulose acetate (CA), cellulose acetate propionate (CAP), and graphene oxide (GO), in order to simultaneously optimize permeability, thermal stability, and salt retention. The membranes were prepared by phase inversion from polymer formulations incorporating GO, and characterized using FTIR, DSC, filtration tests (pure and saline water), and water absorption measurements. The results demonstrate high chemical compatibility among the components, with the formation of stabilizing hydrogen bonds. The AP-GOf membrane (CA/CAP with functionalized GO) showed the highest permeability (23.75  L/m2hbar), while the hybrid membrane based on cellulose acetate (CA, 12 wt%), cellulose acetate propionate (CAP, 5 wt%), and graphene oxide (GO) exhibited the best trade-off between water flux (94.32 L·m⁻²·h⁻¹ at 15 bar) and ion retention (70.7% Mg²⁺, 57% Ca²⁺, 54.8% NaCl). Increasing the CA content improved selectivity, while the plasticizing effect of CAP and the structuring role of GO enhanced permeability. These findings indicate that fine-tuning the polymer/GO ratios allows tailoring membrane performance to specific needs. In conclusion, the A12%-P5%-GO membrane represents a promising solution for sustainable brackish water desalination, combining effective separation performance with environmental compliance.