Nanocomposite polyvinyl chloride/multi walled carbon nano tubes (MWCNTs)-co-silver (Ag) nanolayer composite nanoparticles heterogeneous ion exchange membranes were prepared by solution casting techniques. MWCNTs-co-Ag nanolayer composite nanoparticles were prepared by magnetron sputtering method. The effect of used composite nanoparticles and electrolyte’s concentration on physico/chemical properties of membranes was studied. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction results showed uniform distribution and crystalline structure for the composite nanoparticles. Images also showed relatively uniform distribution for the membranes. Membrane transport number, selectivity and electrical conductivity were improved by increase of additive content in membrane matrix. All mentioned parameters were also enhanced by increase of electrolyte concentration. Membranes exhibited lower selectivity/transport number for bivalent ions compared to monovalent type. Membrane average roughness was decreased slightly by increase of additive content. Membrane ionic flux was decreased initially by increase of additive content up to 0.5%wt and then began to increase by more additive concentration. Mechanical stability of membranes was also improved by using of composite nanoparticles in membrane matrix. Modified membrane containing 4%wt composite nanoparticles showed better electrochemical properties compared to others.
