Aminosilane-Functionalized Zeolite Y in Pebax Mixed Matrix Hollow Fiber Membranes for CO(2)/CH(4) Separation

Due to their interfacial defects between inorganic fillers and polymer matrices, research into mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) is challenging. In the application of CO(2) separation, these defects can potentially jeopardize the performance of membranes. In this study, aminosilane functionalization is employed to improve the nano-sized zeolite Y (ZeY) particle dispersion and adhesion in polyether block amide (Pebax). The performance of CO(2)/CH(4) separation of Pebax mixed matrix composite hollow fiber membranes, incorporated with ZeY and aminosilane-modified zeolite Y (Mo-ZeY), is investigated. The addition of the zeolite filler at a small loading at 5 wt.% has a positive impact on both gas permeability and separation factor. Due to the CO(2)-facilitated transport effect, the performance of MMMs is further improved by the amino-functional groups modified on the ZeY. When 5 wt.% of Mo-ZeY is incorporated, the gas permeability and CO(2)/CH(4) separation factor of the Pebax membrane are enhanced by over 100% and 35%, respectively.