Elliot Roth

Separation of carbon dioxide from flue gas by mixed matrix membranes using dual phase microporous polymeric constituents

This study presents the fabrication of a new mixed matrix membrane using two microporous polymers: a polymer of intrinsic microporosity PIM-1 and a benzimidazole linked polymer, BILP-101, and their CO2 separation properties from post-combustion flue gas. 17, 30 and 40 wt% loadings of BILP-101 into PIM-1 were tested, resulting in mechanically stable films showing very good interfacial interaction due to the inherent H-bonding capability of the constituent materials. Gas transport studies showed that BILP-101/PIM-1 membranes exhibit high CO2 permeability (7200 Barrer) and selectivity over N2 (15). The selected hybrid membrane was further tested for CO2 separation using actual flue gas from a coal-fired power plant.

Ionic liquid regioisomers: structure effect on the thermal and physical properties

A systematic study was performed on two triazolium ionic liquid isomers which included examination of thermal, physical, and electrochemical properties. It was found that a minor change in structure significantly influences physical and thermal properties of ionic liquids.

Eutectic ionic liquid mixtures and their effect on CO2 solubility and conductivity

A simple binary system of compounds resembling short-chain versions of popular ionic liquids has been shown to have surprisingly complex properties. Combining methylated versions of pyridinium and pyrrolidinium bis[(trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl]imide gave desirable properties such as low viscosity and high conductivity solubility per unit volume. The binary combinations studied in this study showed that these materials were stable liquids at 50 °C and had a threefold improvement in conductivity over [C6C1im][Tf2N]. Despite the high densities of these materials, 2D-IR studies indicate increased ion mobility, likely due to the lack of hindering alkyl chains.

Analysis of Rare Earth Elements in Geologic Samples using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry; US DOE Topical Report - DOE/NETL-2016/1794

Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) is used to measure the concentrations of rare earth elements (REE) in certified standard reference materials including shale and coal. The instrument used in this study is a Perkin Elmer Nexion 300D ICP-MS. The goal of the study is to identify sample preparation and operating conditions that optimized recovery of each element of concern. Additionally, the precision and accuracy of the technique are summarized and the drawbacks and limitations of the method are outlined.