(575a) Functionalization of Common Non-Selective Polymer to Create Hydrophilic Membrane

Many industrial situations require the transfer of water to or from a process stream. One such example is the dehydration of organic solvent streams to meet dryness specifications.  The membrane processes of pervaporation and vapor permeation can be applied in this situation with a suitable hydrophilic membrane material.  In this work, a common rubbery polymer was functionalized and cross-linked to form a robust water-selective layer.  The performance of the membrane was demonstrated in pervaporation and vapor permeation tests with ethanol-water mixtures.  Pervaporation temperatures ranged from 40 to 60 degC while the vapor permeation temperature was 115 degC.  Tests of up to 40 days were completed.  Concentrations in the pervaporation tests ranging from 99.5/0.5 w/w ethanol/water to 100% water while the vapor permeation tests were carried out at concentrations of 80/20 and 90/10 w/w ethanol/water.  Water-ethanol molar permselectivity of the unfunctionalized material was only about 5.  Functionalization was able to increase water selectivity by 10-fold and increase water permeability by over 100%.  Details regarding the material and functionalization procedures will be discussed.