Chitosan-based mixed matrix composite membranes for CO2/CH4 mixed gas separation. Experimental characterization and performance validation

•Chitosan-based mixed matrix composite membranes were characterized regarding physicochemical and separation propertes.•CO2/CH4 mixed gas separation was evaluated experimentally to validate a simple mathematical simulation model developed in our group.•Hydrophilicity and ion exchange compatibility of the components in the chitosan mixed matrix layer led to higher CO2/CH4 selectivities.•CO2/CH4 separation performance was better for 3D ETS-10 and zeolite 4A as fillers in chitosan based layer than 2D AM-4•The model validated the CO2/CH4 separation in a wide range of feed concentrations.