CH₄‐Selective Mixed‐Matrix Membranes Containing Functionalized Silica for Natural Gas Purification

Abstract

Mixed-matrix membranes were prepared by incorporating functionalized silica nanoparticles (SNPs) into the poly(ether-block-amide). The gas permeation properties of membranes were investigated for the separation of N 2 and CO 2 from CH 4. Results revealed that chemical modification of SNPs and incorporation of the carboxylic groups on its surface had a strong interaction with the polymer matrix and improved the distribution of the nanofiller in the membrane matrix. According to the gas permeation experiments at various SNPs loadings and feed pressures, different trends were observed for the permeability and selectivity. Incorporation of the modified-SNPs nanofiller into the membrane enhanced the CH 4 permeability, as well as the CH 4 /N 2 and CO 2 /N 2 selectivities.