Palladium nanoparticle binding in functionalized track etched PET membrane for hydrogen gas separation

In this work, track-etched poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET) membranes having different pore sizes were functionalized by the carboxylic groups and the amino groups. Palladium (Pd) nanoparticles of average diameter 5 nm were synthesized chemically and deposited onto pore walls as well as on the surface of these pristine and functionalized membranes. Effect of Pd nanoparticles binding on these membranes were explored and aminated membrane were found to bind more Pd nanoparticles due to its affinity. The morphology of these composite membranes is characterized by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) for confirmation of Pd nanoparticle deposition on pore wall as well as on the surface. Gas permeability of functionalized and non-functionalized membranes for hydrogen and carbon dioxide has been examined. From the gas permeability data of hydrogen (H2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) gases, it was observed that these membranes have higher permeability for H2 as compared with CO2. Due to absorption of hydrogen by Pd nanoparticles selectivity of H2 over CO2 was found higher as compared to without Pd embedded membranes. Such type of membranes can be used to develop hydrogen selective nanofilters for purification/separation technology.