High permeability nano-composite membranes based on mesoporous MCM-41 nanoparticles in a polysulfone matrix

Mixed matrix membranes containing mesoporous MCM-41 nanoparticles with ∼80 nm particle size have been prepared. These smaller nanoparticles lead to a high polymer/particle interfacial area and provide an opportunity to fabricate composites containing up to 40 wt% of molecular sieve in the polymer matrix. With 40 wt% of nano-sized MCM-41 silica, gas permeability of the mixed matrix membranes is shown to increase by up to 300% when compared to the neat polymer. In addition, amine-functionalization of MCM-41 can significantly enhance CO2/CH4 selectivity of the mixed matrix membranes.