CO2 Capture Characteristics of Hyperbranched Poly(alkylene imine): A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Approach
This study explores the CO2 capture characteristics of hyperbranched poly(ethylenimine) (HB-PEI) and poly- (propyleneimine) (HB-PPI) through molecular dynamics simulations using density functional theory-calibrated force fields. Key features such as density, free volume, glass transition temperature, CO2/H2O distribution, and molecular diffusion are systematically investigated to elucidate structure−function relationships under dry and hydrated conditions. HB-PEI demonstrates a slightly higher density and lower free volume compared to HB-PPI yet shows superior CO2 capture due to the high amine concentration. Glass transition analysis indicates a higher thermal mobility in HBPEI, enhancing the CO2 diffusivity. Pair correlation and coordination analyses confirm a stronger affinity ofmore »