Poly(vinyl alcohol)-H-ZSM-5 zeolite mixed matrix membranes for pervaporation separation of methanol-benzene mixture

► H-ZSM-5 zeolite incorporated polyvinylalcohol (PVA) mixed matrix membranes have been prepared. ► The 5 wt.% incorporated membrane showed the highest methanol selectivity value of 47. ► Increasing zeolite percentage increases membrane hydrophilicity as well flux significantly. ► Degree of swelling and pervaporation investigation showed selectivity of methanol in the temperature range of 30-60 °C for binary mixtures with benzene. ► Zeolite incorporation study showed a significant effect on binary mixture separation.