Advances in Polyimide Membranes for Gas Separation: Synthesis, Modification, and Application

Membrane technology is widely used in gas separation processes due to its small footprint, high energy efficiency, and favorable economic viability. The current membrane market predominantly relies on polymer membranes, among which polyimide (PI) membranes stand out as highly promising materials due to their superior gas separation performance coupled with exceptional thermal and chemical stability. However, traditional polyimide membranes suffer from low gas permeability and insufficient plasticization resistance, hindering their broader industrial application. In order to meet the demands of more stringent application fields, it is crucial to further improve their gas performance and anti-plasticization to enhance their cost-effectiveness. Consequently, it is essential to modify traditional polyimides and formulate membrane fabrication strategies to solve these problems. This review introduces the monomer structures and synthesis approaches of polyimides, including solution-based and solid-state thermal condensation. Then, we propose representative preparation methods of polyimide-based membranes. Additionally, modification strategies, including thermal rearrangement, cross-linking, and physical blending, are summarized, which address the critical issues in contemporary polyimide-based gas separation membranes. Finally, this review critically discusses the current challenges and prospects for developing polyimide membranes for gas separation.