Recent progress in thin film composite membranes based on the polymer of intrinsic microporosity PIM-1: Preparation, properties and performance

The glassy polymer of intrinsic microporosity PIM-1 exhibits characteristics such as high free volume, reasonable gas pair selectivities, organophilic properties, stability in many organic solvents and good solution processability. It is thus an excellent membrane material that is widely studied for both gas and liquid separation. Whereas much research has focused on relatively thick (>20 μm) self-standing membranes at laboratory scale, thin film composite (TFC) membranes provide much less trans-membrane mass transfer resistance due to their thin selective layer (<2 μm), making them attractive for industrial applications at large scale. However, the properties of thin films usually deviate from those of thick films. In particular, the polymer solution can penetrate into the underlying layer during the coating process, resulting in the formation of an interpenetration layer, which significantly affects the performance of the TFC membranes. In this review, research on PIM-1 based TFC membranes is critically and comprehensively examined. Key factors influencing TFC separation performance, including membrane preparation methods, support properties, polymer characteristics and interfacial properties, are thoroughly discussed, in order to provide valuable insights and guidelines for fabricating stable and optimal performing PIM-1 based TFC membranes. • Comprehensive review on thin film composite membranes based on the archetypal polymer of intrinsic microporosity. • Support characteristics, polymer solution, coating techniques and solvents all play important roles in thin film formation. • Interpenetration layer may form during the coating process. • Differences in polymer topology significantly impact the initial performance and aging behavior of TFC membranes. • Interfacial compatibility of TFN membranes can be improved through covalent reactions between the fillers and the polymers.