Scientists develop magnetic-field membranes for high-efficiency water purification

A team of scientists from Dagestan State University has created porous composite membranes designed to decompose stable organic contaminants in water under the influence of ultrasonic waves and an alternating magnetic field.

According to the Russian Ministry of Science and Higher Education, the system achieves purification efficiency of up to 96% under ultrasonic conditions and can be reused across multiple cycles without significant loss of performance.

Lead researcher Dr. Farid Arudzhiev explained that the study demonstrates the effective degradation of organic pollutants under a low-frequency magnetic field of only a few hertz, describing the approach as fundamentally different from conventional methods.

The technology is based on composite membranes made of fluoropolymer combined with barium hexaferrite nanoparticles. When exposed to ultrasound, the membranes operate in a piezoelectric catalytic mode, generating hydroxyl radicals that break down toxic substances into harmless components.

Researchers noted that this is the first demonstration of magnetically induced piezoelectric catalysis using such membranes. In this process, alternating magnetic fields create microscopic deformations in particles within the membrane, transmitting mechanical stress through the polymer matrix and generating internal electric fields that drive pollutant degradation.

Arudzhiev added that most similar global studies rely on high-frequency electromagnetic fields, which require significant energy consumption and specialized equipment. In contrast, the new method operates using weak, low-frequency magnetic fields without direct contact, light exposure, or complex high-frequency systems.

University President Mortaza Ali Rabadanov described the innovation as an example of how fundamental science can address applied environmental challenges, emphasizing its potential importance for environmental protection, sustainable development, and applications in industry, agriculture, and regional water management.