Mixed matrix memanbre for gas separations

Polymers are materials widely used for membrane manufacturing in virtue of their easy processability and low cost. However, inorganic materials have high selectivity in aggressive environments, but their use is limited for reproducibility aspects and high costs. Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) [1] are interesting systems to improve the properties of host matrix taking advantage of peculiar properties of specific inorganic fillers [2]. Both glassy and rubbery polymers are currently investigated host materials for different inorganic particles. The inorganic-organic adhesion is still the main problem when a glassy polymer is used owing to the high rigidity of the polymeric chains [3]. In this work, MMMs of glassy polymers and different inorganic particles (Imogloite [4] and zeolites [2]) were prepared and this activity is still in progress analysing the influence of the fillers on the gas transport properties. In particular, focussing on CO2 separation from flue gas and bio-gas streams [5]. References [1] M. A. Aroon, A. F. Ismail, T. Matsuura, M.M. Montazer-Rahmati, Separation and Purification Technology, 75, 229-242, 2010. [2] G. Clarizia, C. Algieri, E. Drioli, Polymer, 45, 5671-5681, 2004. [3] G. Clarizia, C. Algieri, A. Regina, E. Drioli, Microporous and Mesoporous Materials, 115, 67-74, 2008. [4] I. Bottero, B. Bonelli, S. E. Ashbrook, P. A. Wright, W. Zhou, M. Tagliabue, M. Armandi, E.. Garrone, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Physics, 13, 744-750, 2011. [5] F. Falbo, F. Tasselli, A. Brunetti, E. Drioli, G. Barbieri, Brazilian Journal of Chemical Engineering, 31, 1023-1034, 2024.