Study on the interaction of methane gas with poly(phenylene oxide) membrane using infrared spectroscopic method

In the presence of methane, the IR spectrum of the PPO membrane has changed at bands 3200–2600 cm−1 and 1300 cm−1. This phenomenon is reversible. When air is passed through the methane treated sample, the IR spectra regained its original shape and intensity. This indicates that methane interacts with the polymer molecule and forms an unstable complex.