Evolving Trends in Tannic Acid-Modified Thin-Film Composite Membranes: A Comprehensive Review

In response to the growing demand for efficient water treatment solutions, thin-film composite (TFC) membranes have gained prominence due to the versatility in various separation processes. Tannic acid (TA), derived from plants, exhibits unique properties such as hydrophilicity, metal ion chelation, and antioxidant activity, positioning it as a promising agent for membrane modification. This review comprehensively explores recent advancements in enhancing TFC membranes through TA modification. It delves into synthesis methodologies and performance enhancement mechanisms, aiming to provide a foundational resource for membrane design and application. The focus is on how TA contributes to improved membrane performance through selective layer and interlayer synthesis, optimizing the interfacial polymerization (IP) reaction process, and post-treatment surface modification. Additionally, the review highlights innovative non-IP TFC membranes incorporating TA, such as metal-phenolic network membranes, co-deposited membranes, layer-by-layer self-assembled membranes, and two-dimensional laminar membranes. Challenges are addressed, and future research directions are suggested to optimize TA utilization and evaluate its long-term performance and stability in membrane applications.