Preparation and Gas Separation Performance of SSZ-13 Zeolite Membranes

SSZ-13 zeolite has CHA topology and elliptical cages of large pore volume derived from its low framework density and 3-dimensional eight-membered ring windows (0. 38 nmx0. 38 nm). In contrast to CH4 and N-2, SSZ-13 zeolite preferentially adsorbs CO2, and thus is suitable for CO2/CH4 or CO2/N-2 gas separation. SSZ-13 membrane can be prepared by in situ crystallization, secondary growth method, microwave synthesis, and interzeolite conversion synthesis. The hydrophobicity increases as the rise of Si/Al ratio, and the membrane layer becomes more uniform, with less defects, and much more selectivity, which is beneficial for natural gas purification and fuel gas separation. The main processes of preparation of SSZ-13 membranes are reviewed. The mechanism of gas separation of SSZ-13 membrane is summarized. The effects of supports, the composing conditions, Si/Al ratios, test conditions, and the gas mixtures on gas separation performance of SSZ-13 membranes are evaluated in this paper. The further development of high-silica SSZ-13 membrane is forecasted.