Membrane separation technology alternative energy

The importance of membrane processes in separation technology is steadily increasing. Membranes separate a feed mixture into a permeate, that is, the part of a stream which passes the membrane, and a retentate, which does not pass the membrane (Figure 9.2). In thermal process engineering, membrane separations are often an energy-saving alternative for the separation of azeotropes, as the separation effect is almost independent from the vapor-liquid equilibrium which is used in distillation. The two components separate because of their different ability to pass the membrane, which is illustrated in Figure 9.2. 

H2 separation technologies are of great importance due to the role of H2 as an alternative, clean, energy-efficient carrier. Membrane related processes are considered to be one of the most promising routes in the production of high purity H2. Pd membranes are well known for their application in H2 separation and purification due to their high chemical permeability and perfect selectivity to hydrogen [1]. 

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