Basic Principles of Membrane Reactors

Membrane reactors promote a reaction process based on the following three routes, with the membranes having different effects  

A synergy may be created due to the use of MRs. Since the chemical reaction can be enhanced by membrane separation, it is possible to attain a given conversion at less severe conditions of temperature and pressure. This implies that hot spots may be avoided and the MR may be energy-efficient and relatively safe in operation. Furthermore, the reduction in temperature leads to a decrease in catalytic deactivation from coke deposition and sintering, and thus provides improved catalyst life and/or less frequent regeneration requirements. In addition, the MR may also allow hot separation of products and eliminate the need for quenching a reaction to prevent back-reactions. 

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