In this study, functionalized graphene oxide was prepared by surface grafting of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) to graphene oxide (GO) surface using ethylenediamine as linking agent and was introduced into polyethersulfone membrane matrix. Grafting of ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid to graphene oxide was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and X-ray diffraction. The characteristics of prepared nanocomposite membranes were investigated using FESEM and contact angle measurements. The performance of the nanocomposite membranes was investigated in detail for water permeability, salt rejection and protein antifouling test. Also, the performance of membranes in the elimination of several heavy metals and dyes was investigated. The results confirm the significant improvement of hydrophilicity in the modified membranes and a remarkable increase in the salt, heavy metal and dye rejection was achieved.

Keywords: nanocomposite membranes, functionalized graphene oxide, antifouling, surface modification