In this study, a mixed matrix polyethersulfone-based nanofiltration membrane was prepared by incorporation of (cobalt ferrite/activated carbon) composite nanoparticles. The composite nanoparticles were also synthesized using the chemical precipitation technique. The FTIR, XRD and FESEM were used to characterize the synthesized nanoparticles. The fabricated membranes were also studied using SEM, 3D surface image, and water contact angle, mean pore size and porosity measurements. The water flux, salt rejection and antifouling ability of membranes were investigated. The blended membranes showed a more hydrophilic and smoother surface compared to the pristine membrane. The membrane PWF was declined initially using 0.05 wt. % (CoFe2O4/AC) nanoparticles into membrane body and then enhanced by a further increase of nanoparticles’ concentration up to 0.1 wt. % in membrane matrix; PWF was reduced again for the blended membranes at higher concentration of nanoparticles. The NaCl and Na2SO4 rejections were enhanced from (42% to 85%) and (55% to 95%) by the use of (CoFe2O4/AC) nanoparticles into the membrane body. The blended membranes also exhibited appropriate anti-fouling property and more stable flux compared to the pristine membrane. The highest Pb2+, Ni2+, and Cu2+ rejections were found 86%, 90%, and 97%, respectively, for the blended membrane containing of 1 wt. % (CoFe2O4/AC) compared to others.
