(287a) A PVA-Mcm Hybrid Membrane for Pervaporation Separation

Poly(vinyl alcohol) and MCM-41 mixed matrix membranes were prepared by solution casting method and followed by crosslinking. The pervaporation (PV) separation of water ?ethanol mixtures was performed at room temperature. PV separation characteristics of the membranes were studied at varying operation conditions. Optimal content of the nanofiller was investigated and the preliminary results showed both improved flux and selectivity can be obtained on such a hybrid membranes. The structural characteristics the nanofiller was examined with various techniques while its role in pervaporation separation and investigated and compared to the vapor permeation process. The mass transfer process in the mixed matrix membrane was also studied.