Emerging Materials for Mixed-Matrix Membranes

A special issue of Membranes (ISSN 2077-0375). This special issue belongs to the section "Polymeric Membranes".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 May 2021) | Viewed by 36436

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon 34141, Republic of Korea
Interests: gas separation; water treatment; membrane contactor; nanoporous material; 2D material; composite membrane
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Singapore Membrane Technology Centre (SMTC), Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute (NEWRI), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637141, Singapore
Interests: carbon nanoarchitectonics; advanced functional nanomaterials; nanocomposite membranes; gas separation; water treatment; hollow fiber membranes
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Singapore Membrane Technology Centre (SMTC), Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute (NEWRI), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637141Singapore Membrane Technology Centre (SMTC), Nanyang Environment and Water Research Institute (NEWRI), Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637141, Singapore
Interests: gas separation; nanoporous materials; mixed-matrix membranes
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) embody a classical strategy for enhancing the performances of membranes by capitalizing on the physicochemical properties of filler materials to engineer the transport properties of polymer matrices. In recent years, there has been a plethora of emerging filler materials for MMMs for various membrane-based processes. Such materials include, but not limited to, zeolites, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), microporous organic polymers (MOPs), carbon-based particles (e.g. activated carbons and carbon molecular sieves (CMS)), two-dimensional materials (e.g. graphene-family materials, metal carbides and nitrides (MXenes), transition metal dichalcogenides, graphitic carbon nitrides (g-C3N4) and layered double hydroxides (LDH)), one-dimensional nanomaterials (e.g. carbon nanotubes) and non-porous materials (e.g. fumed silica and magnesium oxide nanoparticles). Novel polymeric materials including polymers of intrinsic microporosity (PIMs) and thermally-rearranged (TR) polymers have also been used together with the mixed-matrix approach to further elevate their membrane performances.

The purpose of this special issue is to assemble a collection of research, covering recent progress in materials for MMMs used in desalination, gas separation, wastewater treatment processes, and solvents and resources recovery. High-quality submissions are not limited to the novel materials development for MMMs, but modeling of transport properties, membrane characterizations, and application-oriented research of emerging materials looking into fouling, scaling-up, long-term stability and (techno)economic analysis are welcome.  Field of studies can include any gas separation, reserve-, forward- and pressure-retarded osmosis, membrane contactor and distillation, nano-, ultra- and micro-filtration, organic solvent nanofiltration, and oil/water separation. Interested authors are invited to submit their latest results, perspectives, opinions, or review papers on the topics above.

Prof. Dr. Tae-Hyun Bae
Dr. Kunli Goh
Dr. Chong Yang Chuah
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • Nanoporous nanomaterial
  • Novel polymeric material Flat-sheet membrane
  • Hollow-fiber membrane
  • Interfacial morphology
  • Membrane characterization
  • Mixed-matrix membrane fabrication
  • Modelling of transport
  • Membrane fouling
  • Technoeconomic review
  • Scaled-up fabrication

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Editorial

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4 pages, 198 KiB  
Editorial
Emerging Materials for Mixed-Matrix Membranes
by Chong Yang Chuah, Kunli Goh and Tae-Hyun Bae
Membranes 2021, 11(10), 746; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes11100746 - 29 Sep 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1872
Abstract
This Special Issue, entitled “Emerging Materials for Mixed-Matrix Membranes” was introduced to cover the recent progress in the development of materials for mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) with potential application in fields such as sea water desalination, gas separation, pharmaceutical separation, wastewater treatment and the [...] Read more.
This Special Issue, entitled “Emerging Materials for Mixed-Matrix Membranes” was introduced to cover the recent progress in the development of materials for mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) with potential application in fields such as sea water desalination, gas separation, pharmaceutical separation, wastewater treatment and the removal of pathogenic (viruses and bacteria) microorganisms as well as solvents and resource recovery [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Materials for Mixed-Matrix Membranes)

Research

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14 pages, 2251 KiB  
Article
Enhanced Performance of Carbon Molecular Sieve Membranes Incorporating Zeolite Nanocrystals for Air Separation
by Chong Yang Chuah, Kunli Goh and Tae-Hyun Bae
Membranes 2021, 11(7), 489; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes11070489 - 29 Jun 2021
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3685
Abstract
Three different zeolite nanocrystals (SAPO-34, PS-MFI and ETS-10) were incorporated into the polymer matrix (Matrimid® 5218) as polymer precursors, with the aim of fabricating mixed-matrix carbon molecular sieve membranes (CMSMs). These membranes are investigated for their potential for air separation process. Based [...] Read more.
Three different zeolite nanocrystals (SAPO-34, PS-MFI and ETS-10) were incorporated into the polymer matrix (Matrimid® 5218) as polymer precursors, with the aim of fabricating mixed-matrix carbon molecular sieve membranes (CMSMs). These membranes are investigated for their potential for air separation process. Based on our gas permeation results, incorporating porous materials is feasible to improve O2 permeability, owing to the creation of additional porosities in the resulting mixed-matrix CMSMs. Owing to this, the performance of the CMSM with 30 wt% PS-MFI loading is able to surpass the upper bound limit. This study demonstrates the feasibility of zeolite nanocrystals in improving O2/N2 separation performance in CMSMs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Materials for Mixed-Matrix Membranes)
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13 pages, 42198 KiB  
Article
Carbon Molecular Sieve Membranes Comprising Graphene Oxides and Porous Carbon for CO2/N2 Separation
by Chong Yang Chuah, Junghyun Lee, Juha Song and Tae-Hyun Bae
Membranes 2021, 11(4), 284; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes11040284 - 12 Apr 2021
Cited by 20 | Viewed by 4902
Abstract
To improve the CO2/N2 separation performance, mixed-matrix carbon molecular sieve membranes (mixed-matrix CMSMs) were fabricated and tested. Two carbon-based fillers, graphene oxide (GO) and activated carbon (YP-50F), were separately incorporated into two polymer precursors (Matrimid® 5218 and ODPA-TMPDA), and [...] Read more.
To improve the CO2/N2 separation performance, mixed-matrix carbon molecular sieve membranes (mixed-matrix CMSMs) were fabricated and tested. Two carbon-based fillers, graphene oxide (GO) and activated carbon (YP-50F), were separately incorporated into two polymer precursors (Matrimid® 5218 and ODPA-TMPDA), and the resulting CMSMs demonstrated improved CO2 permeability. The improvement afforded by YP-50F was more substantial due to its higher accessible surface area. Based on the gas permeation data and the Robeson plot for CO2/N2 separation, the performances of the CMSMs containing 15 wt % YP-50F and 15 wt % GO in the mixed polymer matrix surpassed the 2008 Robeson upper bound of polymeric membranes. Hence, this study demonstrates the feasibility of such membranes in improving the CO2/N2 separation performance through the appropriate choice of carbon-based filler materials in polymer matrices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Materials for Mixed-Matrix Membranes)
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Review

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24 pages, 3729 KiB  
Review
Recent Progress in Mixed-Matrix Membranes for Hydrogen Separation
by Chong Yang Chuah, Xu Jiang, Kunli Goh and Rong Wang
Membranes 2021, 11(9), 666; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes11090666 - 30 Aug 2021
Cited by 39 | Viewed by 7881
Abstract
Membrane separation is a compelling technology for hydrogen separation. Among the different types of membranes used to date, the mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) are one of the most widely used approaches for enhancing separation performances and surpassing the Robeson upper bound limits for polymeric [...] Read more.
Membrane separation is a compelling technology for hydrogen separation. Among the different types of membranes used to date, the mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) are one of the most widely used approaches for enhancing separation performances and surpassing the Robeson upper bound limits for polymeric membranes. In this review, we focus on the recent progress in MMMs for hydrogen separation. The discussion first starts with a background introduction of the current hydrogen generation technologies, followed by a comparison between the membrane technology and other hydrogen purification technologies. Thereafter, state-of-the-art MMMs, comprising emerging filler materials that include zeolites, metal-organic frameworks, covalent organic frameworks, and graphene-based materials, are highlighted. The binary filler strategy, which uses two filler materials to create synergistic enhancements in MMMs, is also described. A critical evaluation on the performances of the MMMs is then considered in context, before we conclude with our perspectives on how MMMs for hydrogen separation can advance moving forward. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Materials for Mixed-Matrix Membranes)
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20 pages, 1515 KiB  
Review
Antiviral Nanomaterials for Designing Mixed Matrix Membranes
by Abayomi Babatunde Alayande, Yesol Kang, Jaewon Jang, Hobin Jee, Yong-Gu Lee, In S. Kim and Euntae Yang
Membranes 2021, 11(7), 458; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes11070458 - 22 Jun 2021
Cited by 18 | Viewed by 4992
Abstract
Membranes are helpful tools to prevent airborne and waterborne pathogenic microorganisms, including viruses and bacteria. A membrane filter can physically separate pathogens from air or water. Moreover, incorporating antiviral and antibacterial nanoparticles into the matrix of membrane filters can render composite structures capable [...] Read more.
Membranes are helpful tools to prevent airborne and waterborne pathogenic microorganisms, including viruses and bacteria. A membrane filter can physically separate pathogens from air or water. Moreover, incorporating antiviral and antibacterial nanoparticles into the matrix of membrane filters can render composite structures capable of killing pathogenic viruses and bacteria. Such membranes incorporated with antiviral and antibacterial nanoparticles have a great potential for being applied in various application scenarios. Therefore, in this perspective article, we attempt to explore the fundamental mechanisms and recent progress of designing antiviral membrane filters, challenges to be addressed, and outlook. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Materials for Mixed-Matrix Membranes)
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20 pages, 11450 KiB  
Review
Enantioselective Mixed Matrix Membranes for Chiral Resolution
by Hwa-Jin Choi, Yun-Ho Ahn and Dong-Yeun Koh
Membranes 2021, 11(4), 279; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes11040279 - 10 Apr 2021
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5952
Abstract
Most pharmaceuticals are stereoisomers that each enantiomer shows dramatically different biological activity. Therefore, the production of optically pure chemicals through sustainable and energy-efficient technology is one of the main objectives in the pharmaceutical industry. Membrane-based separation is a continuous process performed on a [...] Read more.
Most pharmaceuticals are stereoisomers that each enantiomer shows dramatically different biological activity. Therefore, the production of optically pure chemicals through sustainable and energy-efficient technology is one of the main objectives in the pharmaceutical industry. Membrane-based separation is a continuous process performed on a large scale that uses far less energy than the conventional thermal separation process. Enantioselective polymer membranes have been developed for chiral resolution of pharmaceuticals; however, it is difficult to generate sufficient enantiomeric excess (ee) with conventional polymers. This article describes a chiral resolution strategy using a composite structure of mixed matrix membrane that employs chiral fillers. We discuss several enantioselective fillers, including metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent organic frameworks (COFs), zeolites, porous organic cages (POCs), and their potential use as chiral fillers in mixed matrix membranes. State-of-the-art enantioselective mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) and the future design consideration for highly efficient enantioselective MMMs are discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Materials for Mixed-Matrix Membranes)
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Other

25 pages, 3687 KiB  
Perspective
Emerging Materials to Prepare Mixed Matrix Membranes for Pollutant Removal in Water
by Yu Jie Lim, So Min Lee, Rong Wang and Jaewoo Lee
Membranes 2021, 11(7), 508; https://doi.org/10.3390/membranes11070508 - 5 Jul 2021
Cited by 50 | Viewed by 5279
Abstract
Various pollutants of different sizes are directly (e.g., water-borne diseases) and indirectly (e.g., accumulation via trophic transfer) threatening our water health and safety. To cope with this matter, multifaceted approaches are required for advanced wastewater treatment more efficiently. Wastewater treatment using mixed matrix [...] Read more.
Various pollutants of different sizes are directly (e.g., water-borne diseases) and indirectly (e.g., accumulation via trophic transfer) threatening our water health and safety. To cope with this matter, multifaceted approaches are required for advanced wastewater treatment more efficiently. Wastewater treatment using mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) could provide an excellent alternative since it could play two roles in pollutant removal by covering adsorption and size exclusion of water contaminants simultaneously. This paper provides an overview of the research progresses and trends on the emerging materials used to prepare MMMs for pollutant removal from water in the recent five years. The transition of the research trend was investigated, and the most preferred materials to prepare MMMs were weighed up based on the research trend. Various application examples where each emerging material was used have been introduced along with specific mechanisms underlying how the better performance was realized. Lastly, the perspective section addresses how to further improve the removal efficiency of pollutants in an aqueous phase, where we could find a niche to spot new materials to develop environmentally friendly MMMs, and where we could further apply MMMs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Materials for Mixed-Matrix Membranes)
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