Metal-Organic Framework (MOF) Materials and Membranes for Molecular Separations

This talk will describe our recent progress in the synthesis and processing of MOF/ZIF materials for molecular separation applications, and their subsequent use in the fabrication of membrane/thin film devices for such uses. New separations technology is key to increased energy efficiency in the chemical sector, as well as the efficient production of clean and renewable fuels. It is hypothesized that MOF materials may find successful applications in this area. Towards this goal, we will first discuss approaches to controlling the pore structure, particle size, and morphology of small-pore MOF materials such as Cu-hfipbb and ZIFs-7/8/90 via mixed-linker synthesis, low-temperature sonochemical synthesis, and the non-solvent-induced-crystallization (NSIC) approach. We then discuss the processing and use of these MOF materials in the fabrication of membranes for separations such as CO2/CH4 and organic/water mixtures. Experimental and computational developments that aid the efficient screening, selection, and evaluation of suitable MOF materials will be discussed. Some key scientific and engineering questions whose resolution may enable the successful application of MOF materials in energy-related separations, will be discussed.