Mixed Matrix Membranes with Excellent CO2 Capture Induced by Nano-Carbon Hybrids

1D multi-walled carbon nanotube/graphene oxide nanoribbon (MWCNT@GONRs) hybrids were prepared using a chemical method as fillers for Pebax-based mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) with excellent CO2 separation performance. Herein, the GONRs shell provided a selective barrier and large gas adsorption area, which contributed to enhancement of gas selectivity, while MWCNTs core with smooth internal surface acted as a rapid transport channel, which improved the gas permeability. It is found that MMMs with 1 wt% loading showed the highest separation factor (80 for CO2/N-2 and 23 for CO2/CH4) and high CO2 permeability, far surpassing the upper bound line. Therefore, the synergistic effect of the MWCNTs core and GONRs shell in MWCNT@GONRs nanohybrids can effectively enhance the gas-separation performance of MMMs at low loading. The unique microstructures, ease of synthesis and low filled loading make MWCNT@GONRs promising candidates in post-combustion and sustainable chemistry.