The impact of binders on magnetic framework composite pellets for CO2 capture

Magnetic framework composites (MFCs), comprising magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) embedded within metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), have been identified as a novel class of advanced functional materials. Particular promise has been shown by MFCs for CO₂ capture, as the low thermal conductivity limitations of MOFs can be overcome through the facilitation of magnetic induction heating for thermal regeneration. To date, research in this area has been primarily focused on dry powder MFCs. However, for scale-up towards industrial application, these powders must be formulated into larger structures such as pellets. In this study, the first investigation of pelletisation routes for MFCs is presented. MFCs were produced via an innovative continuous flow synthesis at multiple magnetic nanoparticle concentrations, and subsequently formulated into pellets using various polymer binders. Losses in surface area and CO₂ capacity due to pelletisation were minimised through the use of a low-pressure extruder, with certain binders found to exhibit no pore blocking effects. Mechanical strength of the pellets was enhanced by 107% in terms of crushing load and 87% in terms of elastic modulus through the inclusion of only 4% polyvinyl alcohol binder. Additionally, the first investigation into the thermal properties of MFCs was conducted, a key requirement for modelling material behaviour in packed bed adsorbers. A 47% increase in thermal conductivity was observed with the inclusion of 7.8% MNPs in the MFCs compared to the pristine MOF, demonstrating significant advantages for thermally cycled applications. The formulation and pelletisation methods developed are applicable to a broad range of MOFs and MFCs, thereby enabling the shaping of these materials for impactful use in CO₂ capture and beyond.

• Woodliffe, J
• Myszczynski, M
• Fay, M
• Molinar‐Díaz, J
• Lester, E
• Robertson, K

• Advanced Materials Research Group, Faculty of Engineering, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK

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