A novel IL/MOF/polymer mixed matrix membrane having superior CO2/N2 selectivity

In this work, we synthesized an ionic liquid (IL)/metal organic framework (MOF) composite, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium acetate/copper-1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylate ([EMIM][OAc]/CuBTC) and used it as a filler in polymer, Pebax, to fabricate novel IL/MOF/polymer mixed matrix membranes (MMMs). CuBTC/Pebax [EMIM][OAc]/CuBTC/Pebax MMMs having different loadings of 10, 15, 20 wt.% were prepared by solution casting method characterized using various techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared spectroscopy (IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Uniform dispersion MOF IL/MOF fillers the was observed. Incorporation composite into Pebax significantly improved CO2 permeability CO2/N2 selectivity polymer 2.5- 5.5-times, respectively. Gas measurements showed that MMM 15 loading exhibits higher 335 Barrer 176 than membrane 135 32. with [EMIM][OAc]/CuBTC highest among values reported for other types literature. All fabricated work exceeded Robeson's updated upper bound, showing excellent potential these separation.