CO2 Separation using Polymeric Membranes: A Review

Tewfik, Shadia Ragheb; Sorour, Mohamed; Aboelnour, AbdelGhany; Shaalan, Hayam Fahim; Hani, Heba; Mostafa, Yomna Osama; Sayed, Eman; Naguib, Aya; Shawky, Nourhan Abdelsalam; ElZoghby, Samah Ramadan

doi:10.21608/ejchem.2025.397794.11968

CO2 Separation using Polymeric Membranes: A Review

Articles in Press

Document Type : Review Articles

Authors

¹ Chemical Engineering and Pilot Plant Department, National Research Centre, El-Buhouth Street, Dokki, Giza, Egypt;

² Chemical Engineering and Pilot Plant Department, National Research Centre, El-Buhouth Street, Dokki, Giza, Egypt

³ Chemical Engineering and Pilot Plant Department, Engineering Research Division, National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza, Egypt

⁴ Chemical Engineering and Pilot Plant Dept., ., Engineering & Renewable Energy Research Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki, Giza, Egypt

⁵ Mechanical engineering Department, Engineering & Renewable Energy Research Institute, National Research Centre

⁶ Chemical Engineering and Pilot Plant Dept., Engineering and Renewable Energy Research Institute, National Research Centre, Egypt

10.21608/ejchem.2025.397794.11968

Abstract

CO2 emissions in industry present a great threat to the ecosystem as it is considered the primary source of greenhouse gas emissions contributing to climate change. Numerous research activities have been devoted to developing reliable and feasible technologies for CO2 capture (CC) such as absorption, adsorption, cryogenic, membrane and hybrid methods. Membrane-based technology is considered promising for large-scale applications due to its unique features such as energy saving, compact footprint and environmental friendliness. This article critically reviews endeavours towards developing membranes for CO2 separation. Different polymeric membranes along with mixed matrix membranes are evaluated regarding their preparation, characterization and performance. Moreover, surface modifications of membranes including thin film composites and nanocomposites and layer-by-layer modification are also reviewed. Membrane contactor systems applied for CO2 capture are illustrated focusing on Polysulfone and Polyvinylidene Fluoride materials. An economic comparison of the membrane-based systems with other applied technologies is presented. Further, applications and potential uses of recovered CO2 are illustrated, as well as challenges.

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