Thin film composite membranes for postcombustion carbon capture: Polymers and beyond

The escalating level of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) due to the combustion of fossil fuels has been identified as a major contributor to climate change. CO2 capture using membrane-based gas separation provides a promising route to offset anthropogenic emissions. Thin film composite (TFC) membranes offer the capability to handle large gas flux demands and represent one of the most energy-efficient, industrially viable candidates for CO(2 )capture. In this review, we provide an overview of trends in materials science of TFC membranes for CO2 capture from flue gas. We explore the range of synthetic approaches and diverse materials (polymers, inorganics, and carbon materials) used in TFC assemblies, and critically examine the structural and chemical properties of prospective membrane materials that can help to meet the challenges of industrial CO2 capture. A comparison of the CO2/N-2 separation performance and current technical limitations of the latest TFC membranes is also provided. We conclude by sharing outstanding challenges and opportunities for future research directions in the field. (c) 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.