Research Exchange at Bath

Pore Size Analysis of PES Membranes: Research Exchange at Bath

Pablo López-Porfiri, University of Manchester

Through the SynHiSel programme, Pablo López-Porfiri undertook a week-long research exchange at the University of Bath, focussing on pore structure characterisation of Polyethersulfone (PES) membranes.

The project investigates how temperature control during non-solvent-induced phase separation (NIPS) influences membrane morphology and performance—an approach with strong potential for industrial scalability. Membranes were fabricated under varying casting solution and coagulation bath temperatures to systematically assess structural changes.

Training included pore size analysis using Porolux 1000TM porometry, alongside complementary techniques such as SEM, permeance testing, and BSA rejection analysis. Results showed that higher fabrication temperatures increase pore size variability, leading to inconsistent separation performance.

The exchange enhanced both technical capability and collaboration between the University of Manchester and Bath, contributing to the development of more reliable membrane fabrication strategies within SynHiSel.