The rheological and mechanical properties of magnetic hybrid membranes for gas mixtures separation

The synthesis of magnetic hybrid inorganic-organic membranes consisting of EC and PPO as polymer matrices and various magnetic powder microparticles was successfully performed. The results showed that the separation (coefficient α) and gas transport properties (coefficient's P, D, S) of the magnetic hybrid membranes were enhanced with the increase of magnetic powder addition and decrease in powder particle size. The increase of the magnetic powder addition, decrease of its granulation and selection of appropriate type of polymer matrix improved mechanical (R_0,2, R, R_m and E) and rheological parameters (G′, G′′, and tan δ) of the tested membranes. The hybrid membrane's resistance to elastic deformation increased with the rise of magnetic powder content, while their resistance to viscous flow decreased. The obtained magnetic membranes are characterized by not only enhanced gas transport properties (the increase in not only permeability but also in selectivity) that allow better air separation, but also improved mechanical properties. That is extremely important in the separation processes of gas mixtures at high pressures.