Separation of n-hexane/acetone mixtures by pervaporation using high density polyethylene/ethylene propylene diene terpolymer rubber blend membranes

[Display omitted] ► Polymer membranes prepared were evaluated for the selective separation of n-hexane from acetone. ► Polymer blending method is useful to develop new membranes with improved selectivity. ► By adjusting the blend composition, the Pervaporation properties can be optimized. ► As the rubber content in the blend increases, flux increases and selectivity decreases. ► The permeation properties can be correlated to the blend morphology. Polymer membranes were prepared by blending high density polyethylene (HDPE) with ethylene propylene diene terpolymer rubber (EPDM). These blend membranes were evaluated for the selective separation of n-hexane from acetone. The flux and selectivity of the membranes were determined both as a function of the blend composition and feed mixture composition. Results showed that polymer blending method could be very useful to develop new membranes with improved selectivity. Pervaporation properties could be optimized by adjusting the blend composition. The effects of blend ratio, feed composition, and penetrant size on the pervaporation process were analyzed. The permeation properties have been explained on the basis of interaction between the membrane and solvents and blend morphology. Flux increases with increasing alkane content in the feed composition.