Novel PVDF mixed matrix membranes incorporated with green synthesized magnesium oxide nanoparticles for enhanced dye removal: Optimization using RSM, SOLVER, and ANN approach

The application of nanofiltration membrane technology for removing pollutant dyes from industrial wastewater represents a significant advance in environmental remediation. This research explores the development and performance evaluation of a novel PVDF/MgO mixed matrix membrane, synthesized using Arbutus Unedo leaf extract as an eco-friendly and sustainable approach for removing dye contaminants from aqueous solutions. The membrane's efficiency in removing Bemacid Turquoise dye was optimized through a synergistic combination of artificial neural networks,response surface methodology, and SOLVER. The mixed matrix membrane was comprehensively characterized using X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, mechanical properties, point of zero charges, and water contact angle measurements. The optimum conditions were achieved with a membrane composition of 0.6 %, a temperature of 40 °C, and an initial dye concentration of 100 mg. L⁻¹. The findings indicated that the ANN model outperformed the RSM model, demonstrated by its lower values for mean squared error (MSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and root mean Squared error (RMSE), along with a higher R² value. Based on SOLVER, the highest filtration of Bemacid Turquoise was achieved under an initial concentration of 94.08 g. L⁻¹, membrane composition of 0.51 %, and temperature of 50.12 °C. This study highlights the innovative potential of this green-synthesized PVDF/MgO membrane as an effective and sustainable solution for industrial wastewater treatment.