Well-Defined Block Copolymer Vitrimer Membranes

by R. Górecki, S. Bhaumik, E. Qasem, L. Loiola, A.-H. Emwas, K. Ntetsikas, N. Hadjichristidis, S. P. Nunes
Journal Article Year: 2024 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/smll.202409139

Extra Information

Small, 2024, 2409139.

Abstract

A well-defined α,ω-dialdehyde polyisoprene-b-polystyrene block copolymer, synthesized using anionic polymerization high-vacuum techniques, is employed to prepare vitrimers with tris(2-aminoethyl)amine as the cross-linking agent. The vitrimer network, featuring dynamic imine cross-links, results in robust, flexible, and solvent-resistant films, which are applicable in thin film composite membranes. These vitrimer membranes, with molecular weight cut-offs in the nanofiltration range, are successfully used for organic solvent separation and evaluated for gas separation. The cross-linking density, controlled by the cross-linker, affects the material's gas permeability and affinity for CO₂. The dynamic nature of the imine cross-links enables the vitrimer's self-healing ability, activated by heat treatment at temperatures as low as 50 °C. Additionally, the vitrimer membranes can be reprocessed through solvent dissolution in the presence of the excess cross-linking agent.

Keywords

Block copolymer vitrimers Gas separation Membranes Organic solvent nanofiltration Recycling Self-Healing Block copolymer Vitrimer