In this review, novel structured adsorbents for gas separation processes are discussed. General requirements are elucidated and illustrated with respect to specific structures such as monoliths, foams, laminates, and fabric structures. Geometrical parameters of adsorbents which affect the system performance are identified and discussed. It is clear that opportunities for improvement and optimization of adsorptive gas separation processes should include the development of improved structured adsorbents. These novel structures can fulfil many of the requirements of advanced gas separation processes such as enhanced mass transfer, reduced pressure drop, and improved thermal management. (C) 2009 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.