The separation of xylene isomers remains a formidable challenge in the petrochemical sector due to their subtle differences in the molecular structure and physicochemical properties. Traditional separation techniques, such as simulated moving bed (SMB) chromatography, are encumbered by performance inefficiencies and high energy costs of traditional adsorbents like Faujasite-type (FAU) zeolites. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), with their exceptional porosity and adjustable structures, have emerged as potential candidates for overcoming these limitations. This review examines the latest developments in the use of MOFs for the adsorptive separation of xylene isomers, analyzing their superior adsorption capacities and selectivities. It delves into the underlying separation mechanisms, such as electrostatic interactions and size and shape selectivity, and outlines key analytical and computational strategies for characterizing MOFs. The review concludes with a forward-looking perspective on the application of MOFs in the petrochemical industry, addressing the challenges and research gaps that need to be bridged to fully realize their potential.

中文翻译：

---

使用金属有机框架分离二甲苯异构体：应对石化行业的挑战


由于二甲苯异构体在分子结构和物理化学性质上的细微差异，二甲苯异构体的分离在石化行业仍然是一项艰巨的挑战。传统的分离技术，如模拟移动床 （SMB） 色谱法，受到福加石型 （FAU） 分子筛等传统吸附剂性能低下和高能源成本的阻碍。金属有机框架 （MOF） 具有卓越的孔隙率和可调节结构，已成为克服这些限制的潜在候选者。本文综述了使用 MOF 吸附分离二甲苯异构体的最新进展，分析了其卓越的吸附能力和选择性。它深入探讨了潜在的分离机制，例如静电相互作用以及尺寸和形状选择性，并概述了表征 MOF 的关键分析和计算策略。综述最后对 MOF 在石化行业中的应用进行了前瞻性的展望，解决了需要弥合的挑战和研究差距，以充分发挥其潜力。