Functionalized MOF-Derived Nanoporous Carbon as Compatible Nanofiller to Fabricate Defect-Free PDMS-Based Mixed Matrix Pervaporation Membranes

mixed matrix membranes applied for alcohol recovery with high permeability and selectivity are drawing more and more attention. However, the design and fabrication of high-quality and stable MOF-based mixed matrix membrane for pervaporation are still a big challenge. Herein, PDMS functionalized MOFderived nanoporous carbon (P-ZNC) was first explored as compatible nanofiller to mutually blend with polydimethylsiloxane on PVDF substrate to fabricate defect-free mixed matrix membranes via dip-coating and thermal cross-linkng. Induced by UV illumination, hydrophobic modification of MOFderived nanoporous carbon was successfully realized under mild conditions within one step, simplifying the operation step. By using this facile strategy, we can not only solve the existing problem of agglomeration, but also covalently cross-link MOF derivative with polymeric matrix and effectively eliminate the interface defect between polymer and nanoparticles without any extra steps. The method also gives a good level of generality for the synthesis of versatile stable nanoporous MOF-derived carbon-based mixed matrix membranes on various supports. The prepared PDMS/P-ZNC with commendable structures possessed excellent separation performance in low concentration n-butanol recovery and had a good balance between permeance, selectivity, and stability.

Automated summary

In this study, PDMS-functionalized MOF-derived nanoporous carbon was used as a compatible nanofiller to blend with the polymer on a PVDF substrate. The method simplified the operation steps, solved the problem of aggregation, and effectively eliminated the interface defect.