MOF gel network crosslinked mixed matrix membranes with engineered interface for high-efficiency Helium recovery.
basic_science · Level V
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- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 42098119.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1038/s41467-026-72867-x.
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Abstract
Helium (He) recovery via conventional cryogenic distillation is highly energy-intensive and costly. Membrane separation features modularity and efficiency, but mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) often suffer from discontinuous channels and poor filler-polymer compatibility, which impair separation performance. Here, we report an MMM platform by embedding a continuous 3D nanoporous ZIF-67-NH<sub>2</sub> gel within a polyimide matrix. The gel functions as a dual-functional crosslinker, forming covalent amide linkages and hydrogen bonds with the polymer to eliminate interfacial voids, while creating interconnected, selective nanochannels through its intrinsic nanoporosity. This yields He/CH<sub>4</sub> performance: 549 Barrer He permeability and 110.3 selectivity, surpassing the benchmark membranes. The membrane retains over 95% performance in mixed-gas tests over 180 h. Process simulations show that a hybrid membrane-cryogenic system achieves >93% He recovery and 74% energy savings. This work provides an energy-efficient platform for critical gas separations.