• Membrane Journal
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• v.30 no.6
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• pp.420-432
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• 2020

Random copolymers made of both 'polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIM-1)' and Ellagic acid were prepared for the first time by a facile one-step polycondensation reaction. By combining the highly porous and contorted structure of PIM (polymers with intrinsic microporosity) and flat-type hydrophilic ellagic acid, the membranes obtained from these random copolymers [(PIM-co-EA)-x] showed high CO2 permeability (> 4516 Barrer) with high CO2/N2 (> 23~26) and CO2/CH4 (> 18~19) selectivity, that surpassed the Robeson upper bound (2008) for both pairs of the gas mixture. Incorporation of flat-type ellagic acid into the PIM-1 not only enhances the gas permeability by disturbing the kinked structure of PIM-1 but also increases the selectivity of CO2 over N2 and CH4, due to an increase of rigidity and polarity in the resultant copolymer membranes.

• Membrane Journal
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• v.33 no.6
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• pp.362-368
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• 2023

This research article explores the application of Polymer of Intrinsic Microporosity (PIM-1) as a cutting-edge material for CO₂ gas separation membranes in response to the escalating global concern over climate change and the imperative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The study delves into the synthesis, molecular weight control, and fabrication of PIM-1 membranes, providing comprehensive insights through various characterization techniques. The intrinsic microporosity of PIM-1, arising from its unique crosslinked and rigid structure, is harnessed for selective gas permeation, particularly of carbon dioxide. The article emphasizes the tunable chemical properties of PIM-1, allowing for customization and optimization of gas separation membranes. By controlling the molecular weight, higher molecular weight (H-PIM-1) membranes are demonstrated to exhibit superior CO₂ permeability and selectivity compared to lower molecular weight counterparts (L-PIM-1). The study's findings highlight the critical role of molecular weight in tailoring PIM-1 membrane properties, contributing to the advancement of next-generation membrane technologies for efficient and selective CO₂ capture-an essential step in addressing the pressing global challenge of climate change.

• Applied Chemistry for Engineering
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• v.29 no.6
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• pp.759-764
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• 2018

3D porous carbon electrodes (cNPIM), prepared by solution casting of a polymer of intrinsic microporosity (PIM-1) followed by nonsolvent-induced phase separation (NIPS) and carbonization are presented. In order to effectively control the pore size of 3D porous carbon structures, cNPIM was prepared by varying the THF ratio of mixed solvents. The SEM analysis revealed that cNPIMs have a unique 3D macroporous structure having a gradient pore structure, which is expected to grant a smooth and easy ion transfer capability as an electrode material. In addition, the cNPIMs presented a very large specific surface area ($2,101.1m^2/g$) with a narrow micropore size distribution (0.75 nm). Consequently, the cNPIM exhibits a high specific capacitance (304.8 F/g) and superior rate capability of 77% in an aqueous electrolyte. We believe that our approach can provide a variety of new 3D porous carbon materials for the application to an electrochemical energy storage.