Effect of MIL-53 metal organic frameworks on performance of Pebax/PEG mixed matrix membrane for CO2/CH4 separation

In this study, the three phase mixed matrix membranes comprising Pebax®1657, PEG-200 and MIL-53(AL) nanoparticles were evaluated for CO2 gas separation. The effect of various PEG-200 and MIL-53(AL) concentration within the pebax polymeric matrix on the structure, gas permeability, and selectivity of the membranes was investigated. To study the cross-sectional morphology, crystallinity and thermal properties of the synthesized membranes, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) were utilized, respectively. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), was also carried out to identify the formation of the chemical bonds in the membrane. SEM images demonstrated a uniform cross-section and admissible dispersion of nanoparticles. The results of the thermal analyses indicated an increase in crystallinity and Tg in presence of MIL-53 particles. Permeation of pure gases (i.e., CO2, CH4) through the prepared neat Pebax®1657, the blended Pebax/PEG-200 and the Pebax/PEG-200/MIL-53(AL) mixed matrix membrane was measured at the pressure of 2–10 bar and temperature of 30 °C. The results showed that at the pressure 10 bar, the CO2 gas permeation from 133.36 barrer in pure membrane increased to 311.7 barrer (134%) in a membrane containing 10%wt MIL-53.