ChE Seminar: Razi Epsztein, Israel Institute of Technology, "Israel Institute of Technology “Targeting solute-solute selectivity in membrane separation"

ChE Seminar: Razi Epsztein, Israel Institute of Technology, "Israel Institute of Technology “Targeting solute-solute selectivity in membrane separation"

Sponsored by the Department of Chemical and Biomolecular EngineeringHost: Jessica Schiffmanschiffman@umass.edu413-545-6143 Razi Epsztein Israel Institute of Technology“Targetingsolute-solute selectivity in membrane separation” Tuesday, April 21, 2026, 11:30 a.m.201 LGRT, UMass Amherst(Refreshments at 11:15 a.m.) Abstract:Synthetic dense membranes with poresat the sub-nanometre scale are at the core of processes for separating solutesfrom water, such as water purification and desalination. While these membraneprocesses have achieved substantial industrial success, the capability ofstate-of-the-art membranes to achieve high selectivity between solutes islimited. Such high-precision separation would enable fit-for-purpose treatment,improving the sustainability of current water-treatment processes and openingdoors for new applications of membrane technologies. In this talk, I will firstintroduce the challenges of state-of-the-art membranes to achieve highselectivity between solutes. I will then introduce our current attempts topromote solute-solute selectivity in membrane separation using improved processand membrane design, which are inspired by our recent insights into theselectivity mechanisms in dense membranes. Bio:Razi Epsztein is anAssociate Professor in the Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering atthe Technion – Israel Institute of Technology. He received his BSc and MScdegrees from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev and his PhD from the Technion,followed by postdoctoral training with Prof. Menachem Elimelech at YaleUniversity. His research focuses on membrane-based processes for water andwastewater treatment, emphasizing the fundamental mechanisms governingmolecular transport and selectivity in membranes and nanopores. Building onthese insights, his group develops advanced membranes and separation processeswith enhanced ion selectivity, including ion-specific membranes that recognizetarget ions through tailored binding sites and molecular interactions. Prof.Epsztein serves on the Environmental Science & Technology (ES&T)Early Career Editorial Advisory Board and has received several prestigioushonors, including the 2025 James J. Morgan Early Career Award from the ACSDivision of Environmental Chemistry (ENVR) and the ES&T Super ReviewerAward.

📍 LGRT 201

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