Organic solvent nanofiltration membranes for separation in non-polar solvent system

Abstract

Membrane technology holds significant potential for augmenting or partially substituting conventional separation techniques, such as heat-driven distillation, thereby reducing energy consumption. Organic solvent nanofiltration represents an advanced membrane separation technology capable of discerning molecules within a molecular weight range of approximately 100–1000 Da in organic solvents, offering low energy requirements and minimal carbon footprints. Molecular separation in non-polar solvent system, such as toluene, n-hexane, and n-heptane, has gained paramount importance due to their extensive use in the pharmaceutical, biochemical, and petrochemical industries. In this review, we presented recent advancements in membrane materials, membrane fabrication techniques and their promising applications for separation in non-polar solvent system, encompassing hydrocarbon separation, bioactive molecule purification and organic solvent recovery. Furthermore, this review highlighted the challenges and opportunities associated with membrane scale-up strategies and the direct translation of this promising technology into industrial applications.

Keywords

• Organic solvent nanofiltration
• Membranes
• Membrane separation
• Non-polar solvent system
• Petrochemical and pharmaceutical application