Switchable adsorption/desorption bisphenol A and its derivatives by allyl-β-cyclodextrin functionalized intelligent molecularly imprinted polymer membrane

Abstract

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in natural waterways have significant risks to both ecological systems and human health. The development of effective removal strategies for EDCs that are selective, economical, efficient, and recyclable remains challenging due to the complexity and variability of aquatic environments. Herein, we present a proof-of-concept adsorption approach for removing bisphenol A (BPA), a common EDC, and its derivatives using A-β-cyclodextrin functionalized molecularly imprinted membranes (A-β-CDMIMs). The A-β-CDMIMs were prepared through a straightforward phase inversion method, combining the selectivity of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) with the host–guest interactions of β-CD and the solvent-responsive properties of triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA). The unique combination of these features in A-β-CDMIMs offers a significant advantage over traditional adsorbents, addressing common challenges such as non-specific adsorption and reduced efficiency in repeated cycles. The maximum adsorption capacity (Q_m) of the A-β-CDMIMs for BPA was 73.22 mg g⁻¹, indicating high adsorption efficiency. Furthermore, when combined with a solvent-programmed adsorption-release strategy, the A-β-CDMIMs exhibited remarkable stability and maintained a removal efficiency of approximately 90% even after undergoing five cycles. These characteristics suggest that A-β-CDMIMs represent a cost-effective and sustainable approach for environmental remediation and large-scale water treatment applications.