Seeking synergy in membranes: blends and mixtures with polymers of intrinsic microporosity

In the search for selective, productive and robust membranes for gas and other separations, highly permeable polymers, such as the prototypical polymer of intrinsic microporosity PIM-1, have been combined with a wide range of polymers, metal-organic frameworks, 2D materials and other fillers. Recent research has highlighted the importance of optimising the polymer used for the continuous phase, as well as achieving good compatibility between the different components. Many studies have focused on relatively thick films (>20 m) and more work is needed to understand and control the behaviour of thin films (typically <1 m) that are more relevant to real-life applications.