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A novel polyethersulfone (PES) mixed matrix nanofiltration membrane containing graphene oxide (GO) nanoplates was prepared via the phase inversion method. The effect of the embedded nanosheet on the morphology and performance of the fabricated new membranes was investigated in terms of pure water flux, dye removal and fouling parameters. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), water contact angle and porosity measurements were employed to characterize the prepared membranes. FT-IR spectra of the graphene oxide nanoplates revealed that the hydroxyl and carboxylic acid groups are formed on the surface of the graphene oxide. The water flux from the nanocomposite membranes improved significantly after addition of graphene oxide to the casting solution, due to the higher hydrophilicity of the prepared membranes. The water contact angle measurement …