Rationally designed tetrahedral-configuration-matching methane trap in a metal–organic framework for efficient CH 4 /N 2 separation

Key Points

• This research aims to develop a methane trap within a metal-organic framework to improve separation efficiency from nitrogen.
• Designed and synthesized a tetrahedral-configuration-matching metal-organic framework.
• Assessed working capacity in humid environments and evaluated thermal stability.
• Conducted scaling analysis for industrial application feasibility.
• TUTJ-3Ni demonstrated the highest working capacity among reported adsorbents in humid conditions.
• Exhibited excellent thermal and moisture stability, suitable for practical applications.
• Scaling potential indicates promise for use in industrial methane/nitrogen separation processes.