Recent Advances in C2 Gases Separation and Purification by Metal-Organic Frameworks

Abstract

Separation of C2 gases (C2H2/C2H4, C2H6/C2H4 and C2H2/CO2) mixtures is one of the most important and energy-demanding processes in chemical industry. Traditional separation methods (fine distillation separation and selective catalytic hydrogenation separation) have the shortages of high energy consumption and inefficient use of resources, affecting the achievement of peak carbon dioxide emissions and carbon neutrality targets. Separation based on adsorption is considered as one of the best ways to achieve low-energy separations. Therefore, it is of great importance to synthesize materials that enable the effective separation and purification of C2 gases under mild conditions. As an emerging class of porous materials, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) show great promise in the field of gas separation and purification due to their ultra-high specific surface area, easily modifiable pore surfaces, structural designability and functionalization. Herein, we summarize recent research advances by use of MOFs sorbents for the separation and purification of C2 gases, including C2H2/C2H4, C2H6/C2H4 and C2H2/CO2. Relationship between structures and separation mechanism is also explored. Furthermore, challenges and possible research directions related to the further exploration are also discussed.