Gases Permeability through PEBAX/PEG/ZnO Nanoparticle Mixed Matrix Membrane

Due to high separation efficiency and low running costs compared to conventional separation methods, gas separation through polymer membaranes is considered to be an effective tool for the separation of gaseous mixtures. Meanwhile, attempts are being made to improve the performance by modifying the polymer both physically and chemically to bring about an increase in both flux and selectivity of the membrane. Thus, in the present study a new kind of mixed matrix membrane was developed using PEG as organic filler and ZnO nanoparticle as inorganic filler in PEBAX- polymer matrix.These fillers were added to PEBAX polymer matrix at different concentration and their effect on the morphology, permeability and selectivity of the membrane was investigated. The gas separation properties of membranes were tested using single gases CO2 and CH4 over a range of operating temperatures and pressures. The results showed increment in gas permeability and enhancement in CO2/CH4 selectivity in comparison to pure PEBAX.