The morphology and size of the filler particles are important factors for the preparation of MOF-based mixed-matrix membranes [1-3]. In this study, gas separation performance of a series of mixed-matrix membranes comprising MFUM-1(Cu) (MFUM = Materials from Ferdowsi University of Mashhad) nanostructures as fillers (with different loadings) and a commercially available polymer as host matrix has been investigated. In MFUM-1(Cu), each CuII ion has a distorted octahedral geometry connected with mixed EO-azido/aliphatic based carboxylate/H2O threefold bridges. These bridges extend the structure of the MOF in two dimensions by covalent connectivity and form square-shaped channels. MFUM-1(Cu) with two different morphologies (rod and sheet) was synthesized using a sonochemical method and dispersed in the polymer matrix [4]. Single-gas (CO2) permeability measurements for prepared membranes were performed and the results showed a morphology-dependent behavior in gas permeability of fabricated membranes. For comparison purposes, MOF single crystals (micron-sized) were also tested. The results indicated that a significant improvement in membrane separation performance is attainable by using nanostructures. The results of this work shows promise for fabricating high performance mixed-matrix membranes for gas separation.

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