Tailoring the separation performance of ZIF-based mixed matrix membranes by MOF-matrix interfacial compatibilization

Controlling the metal-organic framework (MOF)-matrix interface is a useful strategy to improve gas separation performance of mixed matrix membranes (MMMs). Although polymer blending has been investigated enhance MMM performances, its true strength, i.e., aligning and additive chemistries interfacial compatibility ultimately performance, only poorly investigated. In this work we demonstrate how controlling by an effective tool tune membrane performance. Three isoreticular zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) two polymers (Matrimid polybenzimidazole oPBI (PBI)) were used prepare MMMs. The ZIF linker functionality strongly determined extent effect PBI addition in For both hydrophobic ZIF-7 ZIF-8-based MMMs, compatibilized MOF-matrix increased CO 2 /N factor while slightly decreasing permeability. Contrarily, hydrophilic ZIF-90 was not affected incorporation. Additionally, permeability followed trend pore geometries flexibilities. These results proved that can effectively be controlled control subtle balance between MOF chemistry. • PBIs ZIFs contain imidazole functionalities, implying compatibility. Due relation, systematically incorporated ZIF-based ZIF-matrix for non-polar functionalities. Interfacial compatibilization enhanced up 39 %.