In this study, PVDF membranes were electrically poled under controlled conditions. Microstructure analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) showed that electrical poling changed the microstructure and surface topography of the membranes. Filtration tests using sodium alginate were performed to investigate the effect of electrical poling on the separation performance of the membranes. Poled membranes were found to have a lower molecular weight cut-off and a somewhat reduced hydraulic permeability. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.