Synthesis, Characterization and NH3/N2 Gas Permeation Study of Nanocomposite Membranes

Carbon nanotubes have exceptional mechanical properties which make them very attractive for the development of composite membranes. In this research, NH3/N2 gas permeation behavior of flat sheet composite membranes was examined. The cellulose acetate-multiwalled carbon nanotubes composite membranes were synthesized using solution casting method. The morphology and dispersion of carbon nanotubes were observed through SEM. However, the composite membranes were also characterized using several analytical techniques such as X-ray diffraction analysis, tensile testing analysis, and thermal gravimetric analysis. Characterization of these membranes depicted that carboxylic group functionalized MWCNTs are extremely compatible with CA. The permeation experiments were performed with NH3 and N2 to explore the host–guest interaction of MWCNTs with chosen gases. The permeability of NH3 was found pronounced compared to N2. The NH3/N2 selectivity up to 90 was documented.