Preparation and characterization of catalytic TiO2–SPPESK–PES nanocomposite membranes and kinetics analysis in esterification

TiO2–SPPESK–PES nanocomposite membranes were successfully prepared using nano TiO2 to provide a high specific surface area, sulfonated poly(phthalazinone ether sulfone ketone) (SPPESK) with a 60% degree of sulfonation as a catalyst and polyether sulfone (PES) as a polymer support. The pore structure, morphology, water uptake, hydrophilic nature, degree of geometric swelling, mechanical properties and catalytic properties of the nanocomposite membranes were evaluated. A pseudo-homogeneous model was established to describe the kinetics of the esterification of acetic acid with ethanol. The results showed that TiO2–SPPESK–PES nanocomposite membranes had high specific surface areas (33.2–56.0 m2/g), mesopores structures (5–7 nm), good stability (swelling ratio less than 1.7% even at 80 °C), good mechanical strength and high catalytic activity (the conversion of ethanol reached to 82%), and good forward rate constants (6.28×10−3–13.6×10−3 L/(mol min)).

► Catalytic TiO2–SPPESK–PES nanocomposite membranes were successfully prepared.
► This obtained membranes had high specific surface areas and mesopores structures.
► This obtained membranes had good stability and satisfactory mechanical strength.
► Esterification experiment showed that this obtained membranes had high catalytic activity.
► A kinetics model was established and agreed well with experimental data.