There are several types of polymers commonly used in the production of membranes for water treatment. These polymers can be broadly classified into two categories: synthetic and natural polymers. The chemical properties of these polymers play a crucial role in determining their filtration performance. Some of the commonly used polymers include:1. Polyethersulfone PES : PES is a synthetic polymer known for its excellent mechanical strength, thermal stability, and chemical resistance. Its hydrophobic nature allows it to effectively separate water from various contaminants. PES membranes are widely used in ultrafiltration and microfiltration applications.2. Polyvinylidene fluoride PVDF : PVDF is another synthetic polymer with excellent chemical and thermal stability. Its hydrophobic nature and high mechanical strength make it suitable for use in microfiltration and ultrafiltration processes. PVDF membranes are also resistant to fouling, which helps maintain their filtration performance over time.3. Polytetrafluoroethylene PTFE : PTFE is a synthetic polymer known for its chemical inertness and hydrophobicity. It is commonly used in the production of membranes for microfiltration applications, particularly in the treatment of aggressive chemicals and high-temperature processes.4. Cellulose acetate CA : CA is a natural polymer derived from cellulose, which is the primary structural component of plant cell walls. CA membranes are hydrophilic, biodegradable, and have good mechanical strength. They are commonly used in reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration processes for water treatment.5. Chitosan: Chitosan is a natural polymer derived from chitin, which is found in the exoskeletons of crustaceans. It is a biodegradable and hydrophilic polymer with good mechanical strength and excellent adsorption properties. Chitosan membranes are used in various water treatment applications, including adsorption of heavy metals and organic pollutants.The chemical properties of these polymers, such as hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity, mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and thermal stability, significantly affect their filtration performance. For example, hydrophobic membranes are more suitable for separating water from nonpolar contaminants, while hydrophilic membranes are better suited for polar contaminants. Mechanical strength is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the membrane under high pressures, and chemical resistance ensures the membrane's durability in various chemical environments.In summary, the choice of polymer for membrane production in water treatment depends on the specific application and the desired filtration performance. Factors such as hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity, mechanical strength, chemical resistance, and thermal stability must be considered when selecting the appropriate polymer for a particular water treatment process.