Enhancement strategies of poly(ether-block-amide) copolymer membranes for CO2 separation: A review

Wahyu Kamal Setiawan a,b, Kung-Yuh Chiang b,*
a Department of Agroindustrial Technology, Universitas Internasional Semen Indonesia, SIG Buiding Complex, Veteran Street, Gresik, East Java, 61122, Indonesia
b Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering, National Central University, No. 300, Chung-Da Road., Chung-Li District, Tao-Yuan City, 32001, Taiwan

Abstract

Poly(ether-block-amide) (Pebax) membranes have become the preferred CO2 separation membrane because of their excellent CO2 affinity and robust mechanical resistance. Nevertheless, their development must be considered to overcome the typical obstacles in polymeric membranes, including the perm-selectivity trade-off, plasticization, and physical aging. This article discusses the recent enhancement strategies as a guideline for designing and developing Pebax membranes. Five strategies were developed in the past few years to improve Pebax gas transport properties, including crosslinking, mobile carrier attachment, polymer blending, filler incorporation, and the hybrid technique. Among them, filler incorporation and the hybrid technique were most favorable for boosting CO2/N2 and CO2/CH4 separation performance with a trade-off-free profile. On the other hand, modified Pebax membranes must deal with two latent issues, mechanical strength loss, and permselectivity off-balance. Therefore, exploring novel materials with unique structures and surface properties will be promising for further research. In addition, seeking eco-friendly additives has become worthwhile for establishing Pebax membrane sustainable development for gas separation.

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