Innovative Draw Solutions for Forward Osmosis-Based Cold Concentration Process

The project involves the synthesis of polymers with varying molar masses and low PDI values and utilization of these polymers in draw solutions that can be regenerated with a low-pressure ultrafiltration membrane and has low reverse solute flux. The project aims to remove the main obstacles of the applicability of the forward osmosis (FO) process including low FO membrane performance, high solute reverse flux, and high pressure and energy requirement to regenerate the draw solution. Thus, prepared polymers will fill the gaps in the literature and related applications due to their low PDI values, low viscosity, high stability, and food compatibility. The polymers will be used in the cold concentration process of fruit juices using the forward osmosis (FO) process and in the development of self-powered filtration systems. PURE students will be included in the synthesis, purification, and characterizations of the polymers using NMR, FTIR, GPC, DSC, LCST, viscosity, and osmotic pressure tests.