Synthesis and characterization of mixed-matrix material of Zirconium based metal organic framework (MOF: UiO-66-NH2) and poly(ether-urethane-urea)

The sequestration of gases like CO2 and H2S from biogas is essential for its commercialization. Biogas being a carbon-neutral fuel has the potential to reduce our reliance on fossil-based fuels. However, the required technological advancements are yet to be achieved. Amongst the available technologies for biogas upgradation, membrane separations serves the best purpose owing to their less energy-intensive nature. Mixed matrix membranes are more appealing than commercial polymeric membranes for gas separation applications because of their enhanced performance. Also, incorporation of Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) into a polymer suspension has been reported to improve the membrane performance. In this work, Amine functionalized Zirconium based metal-organic framework particles (UiO66-NH2) bearing an average size of around 90-200 nm were synthesized by modulated hydrothermal technique. Characterization was done using XRD, FTIR, FESEM, and TGA. Poly (ether-urethane-urea) (PEUU) was considered based on its high H2S/CH4 respectively. PEUU was prepared using a two-step polycondensation technique. The synthesized polymers were analyzed for their chemical and thermal stability using techniques like H-1 NMR, FTIR, TGA, and FESEM. After successful characterization, the MOF particles were incorporated into the polymer forming a mixed matrix membranes with particle loading in the 5-10 wt% range. The membranes were then coated on a porous support and preliminary gas permeability tests have to be carried out. (C) 2019 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Selection and peer-review under responsibility of the scientific committee of the 2nd International Conference on Recent Advances in Materials & Manufacturing Technologies.