Abstract / Description of output
A novel design to synthesize a defect-free mixed-matrix membrane (MMM) exhibiting superior gas separation performance via fully dispersed blunt zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-8) in polymer matrix has been proposed for the first time. The sphericity and interconnected six-membered-ring (6-MR) pore porosity of ZIF-8 was controlled through an aqueous synthetic process by using a non-ionic surfactant (Pluronics, P123) and deionized water as solvent. The use of surfactant in ZIF-8 synthesis resulted in blunt nanocrystals with increased sphericity and 6-MR pore volume as confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherm measurements. Subsequent pure gas permeation tests showed that blunt ZIF-8 increased CO2/N2 separation performance through "ideal morphology" in MMMs as a result of the excellent dispersion of ZIF-8 and good ZIF-8-polymer interfacial adhesion within the polymer matrix. A significant increase in CO2/N2 separation results were obtained with the MMM containing 10wt% loading of blunt ZIF-8 (P51), CO2 permeability of 21.5 Barrer (172.6%), and mixed-gas CO2/N2 selectivity of 43.9 (205.6%). The MMMs further displayed good aging-resistance properties for over 40 days, with considerable potential for long-term operation.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 79-88 |
Number of pages | 10 |
Journal | Journal of CO2 Utilization |
Volume | 25 |
Early online date | 17 Mar 2018 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - May 2018 |
Keywords / Materials (for Non-textual outputs)
- Aging
- Aqueous synthetic process
- Blunt ZIF-8
- CO capture
- Plasticization