Gas separation membrane composed of polyimide and surface-modified nanoparticles: Influence of surface-modification structures on gas permeation properties

Abstract

Polymer membranes with high gas permeability have been strongly desired for energy- and environmental-applications. In this study, novel mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) composed of fluorinated polyimide and silica nanoparticles modified with various organic moieties were fabricated, and their gas permeation properties were evaluated. The influence of surface-modification structures, especially the length and density of linker molecules, on gas permeation properties of the MMMs were investigated. The modification structures affected the formation of high CO2 permeable space on the nanoparticle surface, and appropriate structures effectively enhanced the CO2 permeability of the MMMs.