Neutron diffraction studies of separation of olefins and paraffins in novel bimetallic MOFs

The global polymer market is dominated by lower olefins, which are the most demanded chemicals. Polymer-grade (>99.95%) olefins are required to product high quality polymers. However, the coexistence of olefin and paraffin with similar physical properties in the crude product makes them extremely challenging to separate. Leading technology relies heavily on cryogenic separation, which is extremely energy-intensive. We have recently developed 3 novel ultramicroporous robust metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), namely Al/Cu-Pyc, Ga/Cu-Pyc, and In/Cu-Pyc, which show great promise for their separation in the mixtures. To gain key structural insights into their exceptional adsorption performance, we request 4 days on WISH to investigate the binding domains of deuterated C2 and C3 hydrocarbons within these materials via in situ neutron powder diffraction (NPD). This study will promote the development of low-carbon purification of alkene from alkane.