Characteristics and performance of a "universal" membrane suitable for gas separation, pervaporation, and nanofiltration applications.

The large diversity of membrane separation processes results in a different optimization of membrane materials and structures for each process. In this article, the extent to which a single membrane type can be used in gas separation, pervaporation, and nanofiltration has been investigated. Interpretation of transport and separation properties has led to the conclusion that the membrane SolSep 3360 is a multifunctional membrane fulfilling all requirements for the three separation processes. This can be achieved by keeping a good balance between the thickness of the top layer, sterical hindrance during transport, and the effect of hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity.