Exploring the potential of fluorinated polyurethane membranes in hydrocarbon separation

Abstract

We designed a range of fluorinated polyurethanes (FPUs) to overcome gas-induced plasticization limitations in hydrocarbon separation membranes. Incorporating fluorinated groups in the polyol or chain extender restricted chain mobility and influenced phase behavior. Fluorolink® E10-H, a fluorinated polyol, significantly improved the mechanical properties of FPUs. All FPUs with Fluorolink® exhibited over four times higher propane permeability, though with decreased propane/methane selectivity. Notably, our mechanically hardest FPU remained stable during continuous propane exposure, demonstrating resistance to plasticization. These findings highlight the potential of fluorination in designing PU membranes that resist gas-induced plasticization for efficient condensable gas separation.