Mixed Matrix Membranes: Preparation, Application, and Modification

Dear Colleagues,

Mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) have emerged as a promising solution to overcome the limitations of traditional polymeric membranes in various separation and purification processes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the preparation, application, and modification stages of mixed-matrix membranes.

The preparation section discusses the different methods employed to incorporate inorganic fillers, such as zeolites, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), carbon nanotubes, and nanoparticles, into polymeric matrices. It explores the effects of various preparation parameters on the final membrane structure, morphology, and performance. Additionally, the challenges and potential solutions associated with achieving good filler–matrix compatibility and optimal dispersion are addressed.

The application section highlights the wide range of areas where MMMs have been successfully utilized, including gas separation, water purification, pervaporation, and nanofiltration. Case studies exemplify the superior performance of MMMs in terms of selectivity, permeability, and stability compared to pure polymeric membranes. Moreover, the potential for MMMs in emerging applications, such as carbon capture, drug delivery, and fuel cells, is discussed.

The modification section focuses on strategies that are used to further enhance the performance of MMMs. Surface modification techniques, such as functionalization, coating, and cross-linking, are explored to improve compatibility, reduce fouling, and enhance separation efficiency. In addition, the incorporation of additives and nanoparticles within the polymer matrix is examined as a means to tailor membrane properties.

As a Guest Editor, I encourage researchers and experts in the field of membrane science and engineering to submit their latest findings and innovations in mixed-matrix membranes to this journal. The multidisciplinary nature of MMMs makes them an exciting research area with significant potential for addressing complex separation challenges. By submitting their work to this journal, researchers can contribute to the advancement of MMMs and help propel this technology towards real-world applications.

Submit your manuscript to this journal and be part of the growing community working towards the development of innovative mixed-matrix membranes. Together, we can drive advancements in membrane technology and pave the way for sustainable and efficient separation processes.

Dr. Negin Koutahzadeh
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Membranes is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2700 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

• mixed-matrix membranes
• inorganic fillers
• preparation methods
• application areas
• modification strategies
• membrane science and engineering
• sustainable separation processes