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Published on: August 16, 2018
Mixed Matrix Membranes with Surface Functionalized Metal-Organic Framework Sieves for Efficient Propylene/Propane
Youdong Cheng1, Biplab Joarder1, Shuvo Jit Datta1
1Functional Materials Design, Discovery and Development (FMD3), Advanced Membranes & Porous Materials Center (AMPMC), Division of Physical Sciences and Engineering, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Thuwal, 23955-6900, Saudi Arabia.
This study developed advanced molecular sieving membranes using fluorinated metal-organic frameworks (KAUST-7) for efficient propylene/propane separation. The novel membranes demonstrate superior performance and stability for industrial applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Separation Technology
Background:
- Propylene/propane separation is energy-intensive, creating a need for efficient membrane technologies.
- Molecular sieving membranes offer a sustainable solution for this critical industrial process.
Purpose of the Study:
- To fabricate high-performance molecular sieving mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) for propylene/propane separation.
- To enhance interfacial compatibility between polymer matrices and metal-organic framework fillers.
Main Methods:
- Incorporation of surface-functionalized KAUST-7 (a fluorinated metal-organic framework) into a polyimide matrix.
- Fabrication of mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) with controlled polymer-filler interfaces.
- Characterization of membrane performance under various industrial conditions.
Main Results:
- The optimal MMM with 45 wt.% KAUST-7 loading achieved a propylene permeability of ~95 barrer and a propylene/propane selectivity of ~20.
- The membranes exhibited excellent performance, surpassing existing upper bound limits.
- The developed membranes demonstrated robust structural stability at high pressures (8 bar) and temperatures (100 °C).
Conclusions:
- Surface engineering of metal-organic framework fillers is crucial for fabricating high-performance MMMs.
- The developed KAUST-7 based MMMs show significant potential for industrial propylene/propane separation.
- This approach paves the way for the practical deployment of advanced membrane technologies.
