Transport and separation properties of carbon nanotube-mixed matrix membrane

Abstract

Membrane separation processes based on mixed matrix membrane (MMMs) comprising carbon nanotubes (CNTs) embedded in polymer matrix have become one of the emerging technologies and have been actively discussed in contemporary membrane separation literature. The resulting carbon nanotube-mixed matrix membrane (CNT-MMMs) offers a viable route to overcome the limitations demonstrated by the conventional polymeric and inorganic membranes. The exceptional properties of CNTs make them suitable for the development of this new class of hybrid membrane and it is believed to open the road towards the practical applications. In particular, the unusually excellent diffusivity properties of CNT have promised their use in separation processes. This paper reviews the recent and current development of CNT-MMMs for membrane separation. The preparation and modification of this material is also briefly discussed. This is followed by a detailed description of various separation processes, including pervaporation, liquid and gas separation. Furthermore, the future direction and perspective in research for the application of CNT-MMMs has also been briefly outlined.