New mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) of poly(styrene-butadiene-styrene) (SBS) incorporated with hydrophobic ZSM-5 zeolite (calcinated and non-calcinated) were prepared and characterized by various analyses. The performance of fabricated membranes was investigated in a pervaporation (PV) experimental setup for removing pyridine from aqueous solutions and the results indicated a notable increase in total flux. The influence of feed temperature (25–55ºC) on the pure SBS membrane performance was studied and the results were compared. It was found that an increase in feed temperature increased the permeation flux and decreased the separation factor. Incorporating ZSM-5 into the membrane matrix substantially influenced the separation performance of the fabricated membranes. The sample with 20 wt% calcinated zeolite (C.ZSM-5) represented the highest separation factor. C.ZSM-5 loading up to 20 wt% reduced total flux while it was increased with further increments in zeolite content. The highest separation factor and pervaporation separation index (PSI) for 20 wt% C.ZSM-5 sample at 45ºC feed temperature obtained at about 72 and 80,223 (g/m2h), respectively.

Keywords