Polydimethylsiloxane based mixed matrix membranes with pretreated fumed silica for efficient CO₂ separation.

ABSTRACT: Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membranes exhibit significant potential for use in CO₂ separation applications. However, the selectivity of CO₂ over N₂ and CH₄ in a pure PDMS membrane is relatively low. Herein, we developed mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) by incorporating a surface-treated fumed silica (FS) into a PDMS polymer matrix to enhance the CO₂ separation performance of PDMS membranes from N₂, and CH₄. The surface treatment of FS reduced its hydrophilicity, leading to more uniform dispersion within the PDMS matrix and increased fractional free volume by altering molecular packing, thereby enhancing CO₂ permeability as well as CO₂/N₂ and CO₂/CH₄ selectivity.

SUBMITTER: Chowdhury MJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12534481 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature