A nonwoven supported mixed matrix membrane for CH4/N2 separation

• A novel mixed matrix membrane (MMM) with a PTFE porous support and SBS/Ni-MOF-74 selective layer was fabricated via dip-coating, achieving enhanced mechanical strength (37.7 MPa) compared to non-reinforced MMMs. • The optimized PM20 membrane (20% Ni-MOF-74) exhibited a CH4 permeance of 92 barrer and a CH4/N2 selectivity of 4.18, outperforming many existing membranes in both permeability and selectivity. • The PTFE porous skeleton provides robust integration with the selective layer, improving mechanical stability without compromising gas separation performance. • This work offers a promising approach for efficient methane enrichment from low-concentration coalbed gas, contributing to energy sustainability and greenhouse gas mitigation.