NIRT: Fabrication of hollow fiber polymer/porous-layer nanocomposite membranes for gas separations

Proposal Title: NIRT: Fabrication of Hollow-fiber Polymer/Porous-layer Nanocomposite Membranes for Gas Separations

Proposal Number: CTS-0403574

Principal Investigator: Michael Tsapatsis

Institution: University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

This proposal was received in response to Nanoscale Science and Engineering initiative, NSF 03-043, category NIRT. The objective of this project is to study the synthesis and properties of nanostructured inorganic/polymer composites for application in gas separation technology. Flakes of clay will be incorporated into polymers and fabricated into tubes used in gas separation experiments. The blend of experiment and modeling will provide an underlying basis for understanding the compatibility of the polymeric and inorganic constituents. The effect of structural properties on permeability at different length scales will be probed. By spanning several length scales, including the nanoscale, the team will contribute to fundamental knowledge regarding the behavior of nanoscale materials. The team plans to extend their work to developing new approaches to making layered composites. In terms of the broader impacts, education and outreach activities center on undergraduate research and research experiences for K-12 teachers. A collaborative effort with a Czech group will focus on the development of charged, polyelectrolytes, which could be used in the fabrication of porous layer nanocomposite membranes. There are strong ties to industrial partners that can help transfer technology in the fabrication of improved membranes.