An inorganic membrane filter to support biomembrane-mimetic structures

An inorganic membrane filter is being investigated for potential use as a rigid support for a biomembrane-mimetic structure. Successful alkyltrichlorosilane grafting on the filter surfaces was shown in initial studies. Silanization was performed on both filter faces as well as isolating the reaction to one face. Admittance measurements indicate several possible alkyltrichlorosilane distribution scenarios in relation to the filter pores depending on the masking procedure used. Water masking of one filter face has the most potential for routine use in forming biomembrane-mimetic structures. AFM images of these samples were obtained.