Hyper-cross-linked microporous polymers (HCPs): preparation and methane storage applications

Global warming, pollution, energy shortages and depletion are major threats facing the world today. A critical step in addressing these environmental and energy challenges is the transition from conventional fossil fuels, such as oil and coal, to clean and sustainable green energy sources. Natural gas, composed primarily of methane, stands out as an economical, efficient and low-carbon transition fuel. However, storage and transportation of natural gas pose cost and safety concerns. To address these issues, adsorbed natural gas (ANG) technology has emerged as a highly desirable alternative for methane storage. Hyper-cross-linked polymers (HCPs) offer significant advantages such as high porosity, tunable pore size, diverse synthetic strategies, and robust structural stability, making them promising for practical applications in methane storage. This review discusses the current progress in structural design and preparation of HCPs, driven by the need for improved methane storage capacities. The discussion not only highlights recent research advances but also looks ahead to the remaining challenges and future directions for the development of HCPs in the pursuit of practical methane storage.