Advances in the Applications of Mixed Matrix Membranes for Desulfurization of Transportation Fuels

Desulfurization as a pre-treatment technique, of the transportation fuel is peremptory both for upgrading fuel quality for commercial exploitation and reducing the outflow of poisonous sulfur compounds for environmental remediation. This article encompasses the applications of mixed matrix membranes (MMMs) for the desulfurization of transportation fuels. This composite membrane system synergizes viable processability of the polymers and enhanced selectivity of different incorporated fillers. Hence it offers increased thermal stability, mechanical strength, excellent separation, and purification performance over traditional polymeric and inorganic membranes. These composite materials are widely studied for their potential applications in sensing, catalysis, water purification, gas separation, and adsorption. Herein, different types of MMMs with respect to fillers, chemical compositions and fabrication methods are focused and then systematically compiled and discussed the recent trend for the desulfurization of transportation fuels with profound scientific rationale. Finally, future prospects and room for further advancements in the wider spectrum of MMMs are discussed for better applications and adoptability in the processing of fuel oils. This review will assist the researchers working on the large-scale processing of transportation fuels with a single-point source of knowledge and will save ample amount of time as well as contribute into key future research directions.