A solution-processable and ultra-permeable conjugated microporous thermoset for selective hydrogen separation.

The synthesis of a polymer that combines the processability of plastics with the extreme rigidity of cross-linked organic networks is highly attractive for molecular sieving applications. However, cross-linked networks are typically insoluble or infusible, preventing them from being processed as plastics. Here, we report a solution-processable conjugated microporous thermoset with permanent pores of ~0.4 nm, prepared by a simple heating process. When employed as a two-dimensional molecular sieving membrane for hydrogen separation, the membrane exhibits ultrahigh permeability with good selectivity for H2 over CO2, O2, N2, CH4, C3H6 and C3H8. The combined processability, structural rigidity and easy feasibility make this polymeric membrane promising for large-scale hydrogen separations of commercial and environmental relevance

Metal-organic framework based mixed matrix membranes: a solution for highly efficient CO2 capture?

The field of metal-organic framework based mixed matrix membranes (M(4)s) is critically reviewed, with special emphasis on their application in CO2 capture during energy generation. After introducing the most relevant parameters affecting membrane performance, we define targets in terms of selectivity and productivity based on existing literature on process design for pre- and post-combustion CO2 capture. Subsequently, the state of the art in M(4)s is reviewed against these targets. Because final application of these membranes will only be possible if thin separation layers can be produced, the latest advances in the manufacture of M-4 hollow fibers are discussed. Finally, the recent efforts in understanding the separation performance of these complex composite materials and future research directions are outlined.European Commission FP7 608490 ERC 33574

MIXED MATRIX MEMBRANES BASED ON 6FDA-DURENE POLYIMIDE/ZEOLITIC IMIDAZOLATE FRAMEWORK (ZIF)-71 FOR NATURAL GAS AND HYDROGEN PURIFICATION

Ph.DDOCTOR OF PHILOSOPH

Mixed matrix membranes containing MOF's for ethelyne/ethane separation. Part B: Effect of CU3BTC2 on membrane transport properties

Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) containing various amounts of the metal-organic framework (MOF) Cu3BTC2 as filler in P84 were characterized in terms of their ethylene and ethane separating performance. Previous research showed that especially the use of the MOF Cu3BTC2 improves the ethylene/ethane separating ability due its selective interaction with the olefin. Although the ethylene permeability remained constant, the ethylene/ethane permeability selectivity significantly increased to a value of 7.1 with increasing Cu3BTC2 loading. Experiments show that the ethylene solubility coefficient increased from 1.0 to 2.9×10−3 mol/(m3 Pa) with increasing Cu3BTC2 loading up to 20 wt%. Since the ethylene permeability coefficient remained constant at 17×10−18 mol m/(m2 s Pa) with increasing Cu3BTC2 loading, the ethylene diffusion coefficient was calculated to decrease by a factor of three. Evaluation of the reason for the strong increase in permeability selectivity with increasing Cu3BTC2 loading revealed that this is the result of an increase in diffusion selectivity by a factor of two. These results suggest immobilization of ethylene inside the MOF particles as the result of strong ethylene–copper(II) MOF interactions.\u

Molecularly tunable thin-film nanocomposite membranes with enhanced molecular sieving for organic solvent forward osmosis

10.1038/s41467-020-15070-wNature Communications111119

Mixed matrix membranes containing MOF's for ethelyne/ethane separation. Part A: Membrane preparation and characterization

Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) containing three different metal organic frameworks (MOFs) (Cu3BTC2, FeBTC and MIL-53 (Al)) as filler in P84 were prepared and characterized in terms of ethylene/ethane separating ability. SEM, TGA and DSC suggest the absence of non-selective voids in the Cu3BTC2 and FeBTC MMMs. Gas permeation experiments confirmed this, and showed an increase in ethylene/ethane selectivity of 73% to a value of 7.1, while ethylene permeability remained constant at 17×10−18 mol m/(m2 s Pa) with addition of 20 wt% Cu3BTC2. Addition of 20 wt% FeBTC showed a reduced permeability, caused by the formation of a denser intermediate layer, and no significant change in selectivity. Addition of MIL-53 led to increased permeabilities and no change in selectivity, which is probably the result of the formation of non-selective voids or the absence of inherent selectivity of MIL-5