State-of-the-art review of porous polymer membrane formation characterization—How numerical and experimental approaches dovetail to drive innovation

Abstract

Porous polymer membranes substantially contribute to an acceleration of sustainability transformation based on the energy efficient separation of liquid and gaseous mixtures. This rapid shift toward sustainable industrial processes leads to an increased demand for specifically tailored membranes. In order to predict membrane performance factors like permeability, selectivity and durability, the membrane formation process by film casting and phase inversion needs to be understood further. In recent years, computational models of the membrane formation process have been studied intensely. Their high spatial and temporal resolution allows a detailed quantitative description of phase inversion phenomena. New experimental techniques complement this development, as they provide quantitative data, e.g., on compositional changes of the polymer solution during membrane formation as well as the kinetic progression of the phase separation process. This state-of-the-art review compiles computational and experimental approaches that characterize the phase inversion process. We discuss how this methodological pluralism is necessary for improving the tailoring of membrane parameters, but that it is unlikely to be the way to the ultimate goal of a complete description of the evolution of the membrane structure from the initial demixing to the final solidification. Alternatively, we formulate an approach that includes a database of standardized and harmonized membrane performance data based on previously publicized data, as well as the application of artificial neural networks as a new powerful tool to link membrane production parameters to membrane performance.

Size effects on spinodal decomposition

“…For arbitrary composition and strain variations at the boundary of the grain, equations ( 4) and (5)…”

“…has also been utilized as a technique for fabricating new functionally materials. This method has been used in a variety of applications such as in polymer-dispersed liquid crystal films for electro-optical devices [3], porous polymeric membranes for separation processes [4,5], fabricating electrodes for lithium ion batteries [6], energy storage devices [7], fuel cells [8] and organic solar cells [9].…”

Simulation of Membrane Fabrication via Solvent Evaporation and Nonsolvent-Induced Phase Separation

“…Specifically, porous membranes made of polymers and block copolymers have found multiple applications, such as ultrafiltration of functional macromolecules or colloids, and water purification. − In particular, integral-asymmetric isoporous block copolymer membranes , consist of a top layer of perpendicularly oriented pores with a narrow pore-size distribution that arises from the self-assembly of a cylinder-forming block copolymer. The selective top layer is supported by a macroporous substrate of the same material.…”