A novel antibacterial ultrafiltration (UF) membrane obtained by blending poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) with Ag+ exchanged NaY zeolite particles (AgNaY) was prepared using phase inversion methods. The AgNaY hybrid PVDF membranes exhibited excellent and long-lasting antibacterial activity against Escherichia coil (E. coil). Its antibacterial activity was improved with increased Ag+ content. The hydrophilicity of P-AgNaY-3 was improved with a low contact angle of 81.6 degrees. Compared with P-0, the permeate performance, thermal stability, and mechanical properties of P-AgNaY were improved with a steady bovine serum albumin (BSA) retention above 92%. Antibacterial activity of the membranes against E coil was measured using the halo zone test. The characterization of AgNaY/PVDF hybrid membranes was investigated by scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, tensile stress tests, thermogravimetric analysis, contact angle tests, pure water flux, and permeation flux. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.