(541d) Formation Of Isotropic Microporous Mixed Matrix (Zeotips) Membranes

This presentation will introduce a new concept in mixed matrix membranes for liquid separations and gas separations: nanoporous zeolite particles suspended in a flexible, isotropic, microporous polymer matrix. The cellular voids of the polymer matrix allow for rapid transport through the membrane while the nanoporous zeolite particles provide the membrane with high selectivity capabilities. These unique zeolite-containing membranes are formed via the thermally induced phase separation process; thus, they are referred to as ZeoTIPS membranes. This presentation will briefly explain the rationale behind the development of ZeoTIPS membranes and will then focus on the details of the membrane formation process. Specifically, the presentation will include a discussion of how zeolite particles influence the processes of droplet coarsening and pore formation in thermally induced phase separation by disrupting flow fields as well as changing local compositions and viscosities. The presentation will also discuss the issue of affinity between the zeolite particles and the polymer?diluent mixture as it relates to membrane morphology. Finally, the presentation will provide insight into the effects of the zeolite?polymer?diluent composition and the formation process conditions on the final membrane structure.