Mixed and single gas permeation performance analysis of amino-modified ZIF based mixed matrix membrane

Abstract

Dense and translucent CA/PEG 1000/ZIF membranes were synthesized in acetone, utilizing solution casting. Membrane characterization was carried out using FT-IR, SEM and tensile testing. SEM proved presence of dense membranes and increase in the filler amount may have formed voids, raising the permeability of both gases. Single and mixed gas (CO2/CH4) permeation testing showed an increased permeability, on addition of more filler, which is probably due to formation of nano-gaps. A maximum selectivity of 39.49 and 34.86 for single and mixed gases respectively, and maximum permeabilities of 49.7685 and 1.41 barrers were observed. Tensile testing showed that strength peaked then decreased on increased loading, due to agglomeration on adding more ZIF, which introduced defects in structure. To conclude, selectivity of higher loaded membranes is favourable whereas tensile strength of lower loaded membrane is superior, but we have a trade-off between selectivity and tensile strength, so a higher-loaded membrane is most suitable. [Formula: see text]