Translating Carbon Molecular Sieves (CMS) Dense Film Gas Transport Performance to Asymmetric Hollow Fiber Membranes

Fundamental studies on Carbon Molecular Sieves (CMS) dense film membranes have shown enhanced gas separation ability based on its bimodal pore distribution. The simplified structure of CMS membrane is generally assumed to compose a ‘slit-like’ dual-pore morphology consisting of micropore (~6-20Å) and ultra-micropore (<6Å). The nano-size pore distribution is obtained by the thermal degradation of polymer precursors under controlled atmospheres.  For industrial application, it is important to translate this high separation performance in hollow fiber membrane configuration. In our talk, we will discuss an approach to overcome the challenge in maintaining the asymmetric morphology of CMS hollow fiber membranes. To achieve the superior gas separation performance and asymmetric morphology in final CMS hollow fibers, we use the sol-gel reaction between organic-alkoxy silane and moisture (V-Treatment). CMS V-Treated hollow fibers membranes are evaluated for both pure and mixed gas feeds.