Preparation of carbon molecular sieve membranes from an optimized ionic liquid-regenerated cellulose precursor

Abstract Novel carbon molecular sieve membranes with high separation performance and stability in the presence of humidified streams were prepared from an optimized ionic liquid-regenerated cellulose precursor, in a single carbonization step. Membranes prepared at two different carbonization end temperatures (550 °C and 600 °C) were analyzed through scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, carbon dioxide adsorption and permeation experiments. The prepared membranes exhibited uniform thickness of approximately 20 µm and a well-developed microporous structure. The permeation performance of these carbon molecular sieve membranes was above the Robeson upper bound curve for polymeric membranes. In particular, the membrane prepared at 550 °C end temperature exhibited permeability to oxygen of 5.16 barrer and O2/N2 ideal selectivity of 32.3 and permeability to helium of 126 barrer and He/N2 ideal selectivity of 788; besides, permeation experiments performed in the presence of ca. 80% relative humidity showed that humidity does not originate pore blockage. These results open the door for the preparation of tailor made precursors that originate carbon molecular sieve membranes with extraordinary separation performances, mechanical resistance and stability.