Tailor-made MOF for the separation of alkane isomers

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Schematic example of highly selective propane/propylene separation process through the adsorbent bed of the metal-organic framework

Invention Summary:

The separation of alkane isomers, especially propane and propylene, represents a critical yet challenging process in the petrochemical industry to produce high-quality gasoline. Current distillation technology is energy intensive, so an alternative is necessary. Adsorptive separation by porous solids offers lower energy costs and higher efficiency.

Rutgers researchers have developed a series of metal organic frameworks (MOFs) for efficient alkane separation. One of which adsorbs and produces polymer-grade propylene while fully excluding propane with 99.5% purity. The series allows other separations to be possible due to systematic tuning of metals and ligands, all of which maintain framework stability under processing conditions.

Market Applications:

• Production of polymer-grade propylene
• Petroleum refining for production of high-RON gasoline
• Separation of linear, mono- and di-branched hydrocarbon isomers
• Industrial reactions requiring separation of linear and branched hydrocarbons and the separation of propane and propylene

Advantages:

• Low-energy; adsorption can be performed at ambient temperature
• Compatible with existing industrial processing equipment
• High selectivity of propylene over propane by size exclusion-based separation
• Facile and scalable synthesis
• Excellent thermal and hydrothermal stability

Associated technologies:

1. A Novel, Tailor-Made MOF for Exceptionally Efficient Separation of Propane and Propylene

2. Novel metal-organic frameworks for efficient separation of alkane isomers

Publications:

1. Liang et al. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2021, 143, 19300−19305 https://doi.org/10.1021/jacs.1c10423

2. Hao et al. Advanced Materials. 2018, 20, 1805088. https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.201805088

Intellectual Property & Development Status: US non-provisional application granted (US 2021/0339186 A1). Patent pending. Available for licensing and/or research collaboration. For any business development and other collaborative partnerships, contact:  marketingbd@research.rutgers.edu