Preparation of Sustainable Corn Cob-Derived Mixed-Matrix Membrane with 13X Zeolite for Efficient CO₂ Separation from Biomass Syngas for e-fuel production

The increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions and carbon emission reduction has intensified the need for efficient CO₂ separation technologies. In this study, a novel and eco-friendly mixed-matrix membrane (MMM) was developed using corn cob-derived biomass as a sustainable polymer matrix, incorporated with 13X zeolite as an inorganic filler. The membrane was synthesized through a solution casting method, ensuring uniform dispersion of zeolite particles within the biomass-derived matrix. The incorporation of 13X zeolite significantly enhanced the membrane’s gas separation performance due to its high surface area, selective adsorption properties, and molecular sieving effect. The prepared mixed-matrix membrane was evaluated for CO₂ separation from biomass-derived syngas mixtures. Key performance parameters such as CO₂ permeability, selectivity over other gases (e.g., H₂, CO, CH₄), and structural stability were analyzed. Results indicate that the membrane exhibits improved CO₂ selectivity and permeability compared to conventional polymeric membranes, making it a promising candidate for sustainable gas separation applications. Furthermore, the use of agricultural waste (corn cob) not only reduces material costs but also promotes circular economy principles and environmental sustainability. This approach aligns with green chemistry and sustainable engineering practices by minimizing waste and utilizing renewable resources. The developed membrane demonstrates strong potential for application in biomass gasification processes, particularly in CO₂ capture and purification for e-fuel production systems. Overall, this research provides a scalable and environmentally friendly solution for efficient carbon capture and utilization in next-generation energy systems.