CO2 reverse selective mixed matrix membranes for H2 purification by incorporation of carbon–silica fillers

Abstract

By filling a PDMS top layer with porous carbon–silica microspheres, a defect-free mixed matrix membrane was created with notable CO₂ reverse selective separation properties. For the separation of CO₂ over H₂ at room temperature and 10 bar inlet pressure, these membranes demonstrate high CO₂ gas fluxes up to 3 × 10⁻⁷ mol cm⁻² s⁻¹, in combination with ideal separation factors in the range of 6 to 9. The present separation data signify an important step forward in the removal of CO₂ from H₂ using a reverse selective separation strategy. Moreover, they elucidate the potential of such mixed matrix membranes in the emerging field of CO₂ separation.