Two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (COF-LZU1) based mixed matrix membranes for pervaporation

Two-dimensional covalent organic frameworks (COF-LZU1) based PDMS mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) were fabricated and employed for pervaporation of 3.6 wt% n-butanol solution. The effects of COF-LZU1 loading on membrane properties (hydrophobicity, swelling degree and partition coefficient) and PV performance, as well as the influences of membrane thickness and feed temperature, were investigated. It was found that, after incorporating COF-LZU1, the hydrophobicity and n-butanol partition coefficient of MMMs were enhanced, and anti-trade-off effects between permeation flux and separation factor were demonstrated successfully. The PV performance could be further optimized by reducing the membranes thickness and increasing the feed temperature. The permeation flux and separation factor of MMMs attained 2694 g m−2 h−1 and 38.7 respectively, demonstrating great potential in industrial application.