Flower-like tin oxide membranes with robust three-dimensional channels for efficient removal of iron ions from hydrogen peroxide

Membrane technology has become the mainstream process for the production of electronic grade hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). But due to the oxidation degradation of the organic membranes (e.g. polyamide) by the strong oxidative radicals (e.g. .OH) generated via the activation of H2O2 by iron ions (Fe3+), the short effective lifetime of membranes remains a challenge. Inorganic nano tin oxide (SnO2) has great potential for the removal of Fe3+ in strongly oxidative H2O2 because of its ability to stabilize H2O2 and preferentially adsorb Fe3+. Herein, we have designed for the first time a flower-like robust SnO2 membrane on the ceramic support by in situ template-free one-step hydrothermal method. The three-dimensional loose pore structure in the membrane built by interlacing SnO2 nanosheets endows the SnO2 membrane with a high specific surface area and abundant adsorption sites (-OH). Based on the coordination complexation and electrostatic attraction between the SnO2 surface and Fe3+, the membrane shows a high Fe3+ removal efficiency (83%) and permeability (24 L center dot m-2 center dot h-1 center dot MPa-1) in H2O2. This study provides an innovative and simple approach to designing robust SnO2 membranes for highly efficient removal of Fe3+ in harsh environments, such as strong oxidation conditions. (c) 2023 The Chemical Industry and Engineering Society of China, and Chemical Industry Press Co., Ltd. All rights reserved.