Semi-Biobased Polyamide Membranes Derived from 2,5-Furandicarboxylic Acid for Gas Separation

• Published in: ACS sustainable chemistry & engineering 2024-07, Vol.12 (27), p.10152-10163
• Main Authors: Uc-Fernández, Erik, Sulub-Sulub, Rita, González-Díaz, Abigail, Herrera-Kao, Wilberth, Ávila-Ortega, Alejandro, Cetina-Mancilla, Enoc, Aguilar-Vega, Manuel J., González-Díaz, Maria Ortencia
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2168-0485; 2168-0485
• DOI: 10.1021/acssuschemeng.4c01555

The synthesis of biobased plastics is highly attractive from the viewpoint of oil depletion and the transition toward sustainable development. In this study, semi-bio-poly- and copolyamides were obtained from biobased 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) with different diamines containing tetracyclo, −CH3, and −C­(CF3)2– groups. Four processable aromatic semi-bio-polyamides provided flexible transparent membranes with tunable gas separations, plasticization resistance in the tested range (2–10 bar), and good thermal and mechanical properties. The co -PMBD copolyamide containing FDCA and methylenebis­(2,6-dimethylaniline) (MBD) displayed the highest gas permeability with good selectivity for CO2 and H2 (P CO2 = 26.9 and P H2 = 69.8 with H2/CH4 = 61.2 and CO2/CH4 = 23.6) in comparison with its homologues. All FDCA based membranes obtained exhibited higher permeability with a similar H2/CH4 and CO2/CH4 selectivity compared to commercial Matrimid and cellulose acetate membranes. Moreover, after 30 days of enzymatic degradation, membrane surfaces presented noticeable hollow cavities and uneven surfaces.