Shaping of metal–organic framework ZnAtzPO4 for ethylene/ethane adsorption separation

Metal-organic framework (MOF) ZnAtzPO 4 enables precise control of the pore size to achieve C 2 H 4 /C 2 H 6 adsorption separation. However, the industrial application of MOF powder faces problems such as pipe clogging and dust pollution, and the key to solving these problems lies in shaping. The shaped material should enhance mechanical stability while maintaining its physicochemical properties. This study aimed to explore the effects of shaping on the physicochemical properties of ZnAtzPO 4 using different binders. Hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), polyethylene glycol (PEG), sodium alginate (SA), and starch were used as binders, and the shaping body of ZnAtzPO 4 was prepared by extrusion shaping in different proportions. A series of characterization experiments such as XRD, BET, XPS, and mechanical strength testing, were carried out, then C 2 H 4 and C 2 H 6 adsorption isotherms were collected, and breakthrough experiments were performed on C 2 H 4 /C 2 H 6 (50:50 and 80:20 v/v) gas mixture. The selection of binders and the different proportions have significant impacts on the mechanical strength and adsorption properties of the shaped body, in which the shaped adsorbent with 5 % HPC shows a considerably high mechanical strength of 70.50N/cm, the ethylene adsorption capacity of that is up to 89 % of the powder, and the breakthrough experiments showed about 80 % adsorption separation time of ethylene/ethane compared to powder, exhibiting the best overall performance. Additionally, the 5 % HPC-shaped extrudate exhibits excellent cyclic stability and maintains crystalline integrity in both acidic and alkaline environments. The comprehensive investigation provides valuable insights into the shaping of MOF materials and helps to promote the practical application of MOFs in gas separation technology.