Chemical Engineering Science, Vol.53, No.9, 1699-1711, 1998
Formation of hybrid organic/inorganic composite membranes via partial pyrolysis of poly(dimethyl siloxane)
This study examines the use of a partial pyrolysis coupled with an oxidation technique for the formation of porous hybrid organic/inorganic composite structures. Partial pyrolysis of poly(dimethyl siloxane), followed by oxidation, results in the formation of a microporous sample with increased thermal stability and enhanced chemical resistance while maintaining the mechanical strength and some flexibility of the samples. Gas transport through these modified composites is examined as a function of temperature to 300 degrees C. Flux rates through the composite are increased due to increasing pyrolysis and oxidative temperatures while the flexibility and strength of composite materials are slightly impaired. Systems with varying degrees of porosity and separating capabilities are formed, and several of these systems show promise as membrane materials.
Keywords:GAS SEPARATION;HYDROGEN;POLYMERS;POLYSILOXANES;PERMEABILITY;REACTORS;MIXTURES;PROPANE;SILICA