Fabrication of MWCNTS-functionalized SA pervaporation composite membranes to enhance esterification

A novel SA-f-MWCNTs/PAN composite membrane, sodium alginate- functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes/polyacrylonitrile, was prepared to enhance the esterification conversion rate with a pervaporation membrane reactor. The SA-f-MWCNTs/PAN membrane was investigated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscope. The hydrophilicity, mechanical properties, and separation performance of the composite membrane have been significantly improved. The flux of the composite membrane was 4374 g center dot m(-2)center dot h(-1), and the separation factor was 1249 (the water content in the feed was 10 wt%, at 75 degrees C). The composite membrane the trade-off effect between flux and separation factor. The acid conversion rate of SA-f-MWCNTs/PAN membrane was up to 98.3% in 5 h at 75 degrees C, which was a great increase of 18.3% compared with the equilibrium conversion rate of the batch reactor. In addition, SA-f-MWCNTs/PAN membrane exhibited good swelling resistance and reusability. The conversion rate of acetic acid was stable above 95.0% after 8 repetitive tests.

Automated summary

The novel SA-f-MWCNTs/PAN composite membrane enhanced esterification conversion rate, hydrophilicity, and separation performance, showing a trade-off effect between flux and separation factor. The acid conversion rate was significantly improved with good swelling resistance and reusability.