Novel biodegradable poly (butylene succinate) membranes were modified by introducing Al2O3 nanoparticles. A series of non-solvents (i.e. methanol, methanol/isopropanol (50/50, v/v), isopropanol) is used as coagulants. The correlation between membrane morphology, mechanical properties, hydrophilicity, thermal stability and permeation properties of membranes were examined as functions of non-solvents used in coagulation bath and Al2O3 nanoparticle concentrations. The modified membranes were characterized by contact angle, scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, tensile testing and dynamic test of tomato canning wastewater treatment. The experimental results elucidated that modified membranes exhibit significant differences in surface properties and inherent properties due to Al2O3 nanoparticles addition. In addition, a substantial increase in mechanical properties and resistance of membranes was observed for the poly (butylene succinate) membranes cast in isopropanol coagulation bath of increasing Al2O3 nanoparticles up to 1 wt.%. These membranes have more comprehensive potential to reject the wastewater pollutants properly than others.

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