Recent Advances in Membrane Synthesis by Interfacial Polymerization for Pervaporation

The development of advanced composite membranes for pervaporation (PV) via interfacial polymerization (IP) has attracted increasing interest for various chemical separations. These membranes achieve precise separation via the construction of a cross-linked membrane structure, thereby surpassing the challenging trade-off between the permeation flux and separation factor. This review provides a comprehensive review of IPs in solvent dehydration, biofuel recovery, and desalination in PV technology. The fundamentals of the PV process are introduced, including the essential performance parameters and transport mechanisms. A comprehensive analysis of optimization is subsequently performed on the basis of the membrane structure. Attention is given to the preparation of selective layers and interlayers, along with potential optimization strategies, encompassing monomer modification, the integration of nanomaterials, and emerging interlayer materials, with the goal of determining proper conditions for maintaining optimal permeability and selectivity. Further discussion focuses on emerging IP strategies, such as employing metal–organic frameworks, covalent organic frameworks, and porous organic cages as building blocks. Moreover, a comprehensive analysis evaluates performance across diverse applications, such as solvent dehydration, biofuel recovery, organic–organic separation, and desalination. The discussion also highlights unresolved scientific and technical challenges, aiming to inspire advancements in next-generation PV membranes.