Synthesis and characterization of mixed-matrix material of Zirconium based metal organic framework (MOF: UiO-66-NH2) and poly(ether-urethane-urea)

The sequestration of gases like CO2 and H2S from biogas is essential for its commercialization. Biogas being a carbon-neutral fuel has the potential to reduce our reliance on fossil-based fuels. However, the required technological advancements are yet to be achieved. Amongst the available technologies for biogas upgradation, membrane separations serves the best purpose owing to their less energy-intensive nature. Mixed matrix membranes are more appealing than commercial polymeric membranes for gas separation applications because of their enhanced performance. Also, incorporation of Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) into a polymer suspension has been reported to improve the membrane performance. In this work, Amine functionalized Zirconium based metal-organic framework particles (UiO-66-NH2) bearing an average size of around 90–200 nm were synthesized by modulated hydrothermal technique. Characterization was done using XRD, FTIR, FESEM, and TGA. Poly (ether-urethane-urea) (PEUU) was considered based on its high H2S/CH4 respectively. PEUU was prepared using a two-step polycondensation technique. The synthesized polymers were analyzed for their chemical and thermal stability using techniques like 1H NMR, FTIR, TGA, and FESEM. After successful characterization, the MOF particles were incorporated into the polymer forming a mixed matrix membranes with particle loading in the 5–10 wt% range. The membranes were then coated on a porous support and preliminary gas permeability tests have to be carried out.