Harmonious interaction of incorporating CNTs and zeolitic imidazole frameworks into polysulfone to prepare high performance MMMs for CO 2 separation from humidified post combustion gases

Abstract

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and zeolitic imidazole frameworks (ZIF-301) were synergistically incorporated into glassy polysulfone (PSF) to prepare mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) to separate CO2 from post combustion flue gas. The flexible MMMs rendering consistent distribution and improved adhesion of nanofillers with the polymer matrix were hydrothermally stable under wet conditions. Gas sorption analysis along with dry and wet gas permeation experiments showed that both CO2 permeability and CO2/N2 selectivity of MMMs were improved owing to the synergistic effect of nanofillers.