Polyoxomolybdate-based selective membranes for chemical protection

Here we describe the fabrication and characterization of selective nanocomposite membranes based on ethylene–vinyl alcohol copolymers and polyoxomolybdate clusters. Larger “buckyball”-type polyoxomolybdates have been shown to display hydrophilic pores which allow the transport of water molecules but prevent the passage of larger, hydrophobic molecules. Upon incorporation of these clusters into flexible polymeric matrices, membranes with high water vapor transmission rate and low permeability towards organic solvents were obtained. These systems open new perspectives for the fabrication of chemical protective equipment with an increased level of comfort.