Mixed-matrix membranes composed of Matrimid® and mesoporous ZSM-5 nanoparticles

Mixed-matrix membranes were prepared from Matrimid® and mesoporous ZSM-5 nanoparticles containing crystalline ZSM-5. The ideal selectivity for H2/N2 separation increased from 79.6 for pure Matrimid® to 143 at 10% loading, while the selectivity of O2/N2 increased from 6.6 for pure Matrimid® to 10.4 at 20% loading. The ideal H2/CH4 separation factor increased from 83.3 to 169 at 20% loading. The results suggest that the mesopores of the ZSM-5 material provide good contact between the nanoparticles and the polymer, since the polymer chains can penetrate into the mesopores. The micropores of ZSM-5 crystals provide size and shape selectivity.