ZIF-8-based dual layer hollow fiber mixed matrix membrane for natural gas purification.

• ZIF-8 nanofillers as potent carbon dioxide adsorption for natural gas purification. • Development and analysis of ZIF-8 based membrane with different ZIF-8 loadings. • Excellent separation and durability of ZIF-8 based membrane for gas purification. • Permeance and ideal selectivity of ZIF-8 membrane increased by 72.5 % and 1196.2 % To prevent pipe damage and lower operating costs, natural gas must be cleaned of pollutants like carbon dioxide (CO 2) and hydrogen sulphide (H 2 S). High selectivity of the functional material in the mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) allows for a more efficient gas separation compared to traditional polymeric membranes. However, poor dispersion and compatibility between the functional material and the polymer matrix become one of the major problems of MMMs. The use of zeolite imidazole (ZIF-8) in MMMs has been explored for its ability to separate CO 2 /CH 4 due to its versatile gas molecule diameter range and effective CO 2 adsorption. In this study, the effects of ZIF-8 at various loadings were examined on the physical and chemical properties of dual layer hollow fiber MMMs and gas separation efficiency. Following the successful production of 86.25 nm ZIF-8 nanoparticles, ZIF-8-based DLHF MMMs were created. The results showed that 0.5 wt% ZIF-8 loading provided the best results, with excellent interaction between the polymer PSf and the inorganic filler ZIF-8, strong heat resistance, and chemical stability. Increased CO 2 permeability and CO 2 /CH 4 ideal selectivity by 72.5 % and 1196.2 % respectively, compared to the unmodified membrane. It was inferred through this study that minimal loading of 0.5 wt% ZIF-8 in the DLHF MMMs improved their ability to separate gases, making them a good option for capturing CO 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]