Application of Fiber Membrane in Environment and Energy Field: A Review Based on Bibliometric Analysis

Fiber membranes have attracted extensive attention due to their tunable porosity, high surface-to-volume ratio, and adaptability for functionalization. This study presents a bibliometric analysis of fiber membrane applications in environmental (air purification, water treatment) and energy (hydrogen production, energy storage) fields from 2000 to 2024, leveraging data from Web of Science and Incopat. Results reveal China is dominant in publication papers (32–75% across subfields) and patent applications (35–90%), yet nations like Singapore and Germany exhibit a higher citation impact. Environmental applications, though historically active, show declining research in recent years, while energy-related domains─particularly energy storage (144 papers, 32.9 citations/paper) and hydrogen production (135 papers, 34.37 citations/paper)─surged post-2020, driven by clean energy demands. Keyword clustering identifies the evolving priorities: CO₂ capture and mixed-matrix membranes dominate air purification, desalination and ultrafiltration define water treatment, and lithium-ion batteries lead energy storage. International collaboration networks highlight the central role of China, with strong ties to the USA and Southeast Asia. Despite the quantitative China leadership, qualitative gaps persist, emphasizing the need for cross-disciplinary innovation and industrial translation. This review underscores the transformative potential of fiber membranes in addressing sustainability challenges while mapping strategic pathways for future research, policy, and technology commercialization.