MOF-74/polyurethane mixed-matrix membranes to enhance gas separation

The research focuses on the influence of Mg-MOF-74 nanoparticles on the gas permeation characteristics of polyurethane-based membranes, offering a comprehensive analysis of the material's gas separation capabilities. The nanoparticles were synthesized using a solvothermal method at 125°C. Successful synthesis was confirmed through XRD, FTIR, FE-SEM, and EDX analyses. Polyurethane (PU) was also fabricated using a two-step method, and its characteristics were evaluated. Mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) were fabricated using PU with 2.5, 5, and 7.5 wt% of the nanoparticles. FE-SEM and EDX analyses showed a uniform distribution of nanoparticles within the polymeric matrix. TGA tests indicated that incorporating the nanoparticles enhanced the thermal stability of the membranes. The gas permeation analysis showed that the MMM containing 2.5% Mg-MOF-74 nanoparticles exhibited superior gas separation capabilities. With a CO 2 permeability of 93.55 Barrer and selectivity values of 9.70 and 31.09 for CO 2 /CH 4 and CO 2 /N 2 , respectively, this membrane outperformed others in the study. The results highlight the potential of Mg-MOF-74 nanoparticles to enhance gas separation efficiency.