Defect-Free MOF-Based Mixed-Matrix Membranes Obtained by Corona Cross-Linking

• DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b02539
• Publication Date: 2019-03-11T17:44:11Z
• Authors: Yuji Katayama; Kyle C. Bentz; Seth M. Cohen
• Keywords: Covalent organic framework; Particle (ecology)

Functionalized UiO-66 metal-organic frameworks (MOF) particles were covalently grafted with hydride-terminated poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) via postsynthetic modification. These PDMS-coated MOF (termed here "corona-MOF") used in the preparation of mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs). Defect-free MMMs weight loadings 50% achieved corona-MOF particles, attributed to improved dispersibility and covalent linkages between polymer matrix. The PDMS showed distinct separation features single gas permeation tests, displaying much higher CO2 no decrease selectivity when compared prepared unmodified particles. Single tests CO2, N2, propane performed probe mechanism MMMs, demonstrating that these avoid nonideal "sieve-in-a-cage" "plugged sieves" scenarios. Additionally, due bond formation both matrix particle aggregation is negligible during film curing, allowing for flexible, self-standing <1 μm thickness. Low quantities attached surface (<5 wt %) are sufficient fabricate thin, defect-free, high MOF-loading MMMs.