Recent advances in metal–organic frameworks for C3H6- and C3H8-selective separation of C3H6/C3H8 binary natural gas mixtures: A review

Due to their similar physicochemical characteristics, the separation of propylene (C3H6) from propane (C3H8) is a challenging but essential process in the petrochemical industry. Currently, the majority of known techniques use either one-sided thermodynamic or kinetic separation. However, purification under ambient conditions is possible via adsorption-based separation using porous particles, which may have positive energy and environmental effects. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are the most promising option for selectively separating C3H6 and C3H8 due to their ability to control pore shape and functionality. This review discusses the different separation processes, key separation variables, and benchmarked C3H6/C3H8 separation variables, including the current state of C3H6/C3H8 selective separation using MOFs. It also examines the primary challenges and opportunities associated with using MOFs for the effective separation of C3H6/C3H8.