Recent advances in membrane-based materials for desalination and gas separation

Membrane separation technology has shown great potential as an indispensable application in the growing energy demand. Desalination and gas separation is challenging membrane separation processes; among them, membrane materials play a crucial role. Many modern nanomaterials, such as inorganic-organic mixed nanomaterials (covalent/metal-organic frameworks (COFs/MOFs)), can shape specific channels for conveying and separating target molecules due to their structural tunability. By combining novel nanomaterials with traditional polymeric materials, new opportunities have arisen, significantly improving performance and reducing energy consumption. This review aims to generalize the advantages and limitations of varying membrane materials, including organic and inorganic materials. Furthermore, emerging nanomaterials and new mixed matrix materials are discussed from different perspectives. Finally, we proposed to combine outstanding membranes with various novel materials to enhance energy-efficient membrane materials' commercial applications.