(568f) Characterization and Anti-Fouling Behavior of Bio-Inspired Liquid-Gated Membranes

Recently, a new approach to reducing fouling on surfaces was described. Inspired by the Nepenthes pitcher plant, this method relies on immobilizing water-immiscible liquids to a solid surface to create an immobilized liquid layer resistant to adhesion by bacteria, proteins, and salts. These liquid layers have been shown to line membrane pores when pressure is applied, reducing the deposition of salts and proteins on the surface during small-scale filtration. However, no work has been done to determine the effect that liquid-gating has on the filtration characteristics of the membrane, as well as how the presence of a liquid layer effects the development of fouling. In this study, we determine the effects of liquid gating on effective pore size and determine whether immobilized liquid layers reduce the rate of fouling or increase the effectiveness of a backflush step at removing foulants from the membrane surface during filtration of both proteins and bacteria. We also show that the addition of a liquid layer reduces the adhesion of biofilms to the membrane surface by bacterial species known to be strong biofilm formers.