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Updated: Jun 17, 2026
11:55
Membrane Transport Processes Analyzed by a Highly Parallel Nanopore Chip System at Single Protein Resolution
Published on: August 16, 2016
Physicochemical characterization of transport in nanosized membrane structures
Siavash Darvishmanesh1, Jan Degrève, Bart Van der Bruggen
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Laboratory for Applied Physical Chemistry and Environmental Technology, K.U. Leuven, W. de Croylaan 46, 3001 Leuven, Belgium. siavash.darvishmanesh@cit.kuleuven.be
Summary
Polymer-solvent interactions are key for membrane performance. This study found solvent viscosity and polarity significantly impact permeation rates through polyimide membranes, with molar volume also playing a role.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Understanding polymer-solvent interactions is crucial for designing effective membrane manufacturing processes.
- Predicting membrane performance relies heavily on comprehending transport mechanisms.
- State-of-the-art polyimide (PI) membranes offer advanced properties for separation applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the permeation performance of organic solvents through polyimide membranes.
- To elucidate the influence of key physicochemical parameters on solvent transport.
- To establish structure-property relationships for solvent-membrane interactions.
Main Methods:
- Systematic selection of organic solvents to isolate effects of physicochemical properties.
- Dead-end permeation experiments conducted at a constant pressure of 20 bar.
- Utilized STARMEM 122 and STARMEM 240 polyimide membranes for testing.
Main Results:
- Higher permeation rates observed for ketones compared to alcohols and aromatics; acids also showed higher rates.
- Solvent viscosity and polarity were identified as dominant factors influencing permeation.
- Increased solvent molar volume significantly reduced transport rates, irrespective of polarity or compatibility.
Conclusions:
- Viscosity and polarity are critical parameters governing solvent transport in polyimide membranes.
- Solvent molar volume negatively correlates with permeation rate.
- Solubility parameter demonstrated no significant impact on the observed transport phenomena.
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