Reverse osmosis and nanofiltration membranes commonly adopt a thin film composite (TFC) structure featuring a polyamide rejection layer formed on a porous substrate. Recent studies have shown compelling evidence that the separation performance of TFC membranes is critically influenced by their substrates. Substrates not only affect the formation of polyamide rejection layers but also regulate the transport pathways of water and solutes through the membranes. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the effects of substrate pore structure and chemistry on the water permeance, selectivity, and fouling performance of the resulting TFC membranes. Membrane transport models and formation theories are critically assessed to evaluate the key mechanisms leading to improved membrane performance. In addition, membranes formed on substrates are compared to those formed at free interfaces to provide deeper insights into these mechanisms. The potential use of composite/reactive/gutter layer-coated substrates towards better membrane performance is also highlighted. The comprehensive and mechanistic insights gained in the critical review provide a solid basis to guide the future development and optimization of TFC polyamide membranes.

反渗透和纳滤膜通常采用薄膜复合 (TFC) 结构，其特征是在多孔基材上形成聚酰胺截留层。最近的研究表明，令人信服的证据表明，TFC 膜的分离性能受到其底物的严重影响。底物不仅影响聚酰胺截留层的形成，而且还调节水和溶质通过膜的传输途径。本综述全面总结了基材孔结构和化学性质对所得 TFC 膜的水渗透性、选择性和污染性能的影响。对膜传输模型和形成理论进行了严格评估，以评估导致膜性能改善的关键机制。此外，将在基板上形成的膜与在自由界面上形成的膜进行比较，以更深入地了解这些机制。还强调了复合/反应性/排水沟层涂层基材在获得更好膜性能方面的潜在用途。在批判性审查中获得的全面和机械见解为指导 TFC 聚酰胺膜的未来开发和优化提供了坚实的基础。