Molecularly imprinted poly(methyl methacrylate)-nickel sulfide hybrid membranes for adsorptive desulfurization of dibenzothiophene

Abstract

The ultra-deep desulfurization of crude oil to produce cleaner transportation fuels is essential for environmental protection. In this study, we present the development of molecularly imprinted poly(methyl methacrylate) (MIP)-based affinity membranes for adsorptive desulfurization of fuels. Hydrothermally-prepared nickel sulfide (NiS) nanoparticles are integrated into DBTh-imprinted polymer (MIP) to prepare MIP-NiS hybrid membranes with enhanced desulfurization capability. The surface morphology of non-imprinted (NIP), MIP and MIP-NiS hybrid membranes is studied by atomic force microscopy, which reveals the microstructure of MIP and finely dispersed NiS nanoparticles in the MIP matrix. The adsorptive removal of DBTh from n-hexane solution is investigated. The results indicated the removal of DBTh down to 1 ppmw with MIP-NiS hybrid membrane that is an order of magnitude superior to conventional hydrodesulfurization techniques (i.e. ~10 ppmw). The post-polymerization DBTh-imprinting effects of MIP combined with NiS-DBTh affinity interactions in MIP-NiS hybrid membranes offer the effective (97%) recognition and removal of DBTh at 1 ppmw.