Author Identifier (ORCID)
Shayan Abrishami’s ORCID record 
Mahsa Golmohammadi’s ORCID record
Abstract
Polymer Inclusion Membranes (PIMs) have emerged as sustainable separation platforms that integrate carrier-mediated selectivity within stable polymeric matrices, eliminating drawbacks of conventional solvent extraction such as solvent loss and emulsion formation. This review examines the fundamental principles, recent developments, and performance characteristics of PIMs, emphasizing design, fabrication, and operational optimization. The three essential components, base polymers, plasticizers, and carriers are systematically analysed alongside their synergistic effects on membrane stability, selectivity, and transport efficiency. Emerging materials including ionic liquids and deep eutectic solvents as dual-function plasticizers/carriers receive particular attention. Preparation methods are critically evaluated, including solution casting, phase inversion, and thermal compression techniques. Transport mechanisms encompassing carrier diffusion and fixed-site jumping are thoroughly discussed. Operational parameters including pH, temperature, and hydrodynamic conditions are analysed for their impact on efficiency. A comparative analysis demonstrates broad applicability in metal ion extraction, dye removal, contaminant elimination, and specialized applications in chemical analysis, biocatalysis, fuel cells, and gas separation. Despite significant advances, challenges remain including relatively low flux, carrier leakage, mechanical stability limitations, and lack of standardized metrics. Future directions emphasize covalently bound carriers, electrochemical system integration, machine learning optimization, and sustainable material development for large-scale implementation.
Keywords
deep eutectic solvents, ionic liquids membrane selectivity, polymer inclusion membrane, species transport mechanisms
Document Type
Journal Article
Date of Publication
4-1-2026
Article Number
109905
Volume
86
Publication Title
Journal of Water Process Engineering
Publisher
Elsevier
School
Mineral Recovery Research Centre / School of Engineering
RAS ID
99405
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Abrishami, S., Golmohammadi, M., Myers, M., Zargar, M., De Los Ríos, A. P., Hernández-Fernández, F. J., & Razmjou, A. (2026). Development, performance analysis and application of polymer inclusion membranes: A critical review. Journal of Water Process Engineering, 86, Article 109905. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jwpe.2026.109905