Construction and Characterization of MOF-Nanosheet Based Mixed Matrix Membranes with Two-Dimensional Nano-Confined Molecular Transport Pathways

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Armin Feldhoff
• Subject Area: Physical Chemistry of Solids and Surfaces, Material Characterisation
• Term: from 2017 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 322912360

H2/CO2 separation is one of the key technologies in H2 production and CO2 capture from fossil fuels. This project is aiming at the developing paradigm-changing H2-selective membranes with two-dimensional nano-confined molecular transport pathways from metal organic framework (MOF) nanosheets and ultrathin polymeric nanofilms. This involves the preparation of MOF nanosheets, ultrathin polymeric nanofilms, and membranes accompanied by thorough characterization of its micro- and ultrastructure characterization by scanning and transmission electron microscope techniques. The performance of the developed mixed matrix membranes for H2/CO2 separation are evaluated experimentally under simulated conditions of an integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC). By studying the transport mechanism of light gases through the nano-confined pathways in the mixed matrix membranes and investigation of the structure-performance relationship of the membranes, fundamental understanding about the synergistic effect between MOF nanosheets and polymer networks on the transport of gas molecules will be gained.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: China
• Partner Organisation: National Natural Science Foundation of China
• Cooperation Partner: Professor Dr. Yanshuo Li