Cryogenic separation processes expansion

The first generation of gas separators has achieved an impressive penetration into markets traditionally dominated by cryogenic, chemical and physical sorption processes. Competition from these processes is strong. Membranes with higher permeabilities, selectivities and resistance to penetrant attack are required to meet challenges from these traditional processes and to permit expansion into additional application areas. 

The Linde cycle is a simple cryogenic process based on Joule-Thompson effect. It is composed of different steps the gas is first compressed, then preliminarily cooled in a heat exchanger using liquid nitrogen, finally it passes through a lamination throttle valve to exploit the benefits of Joule-Thomson expansion. Some liquid is produced, and the vapour is separated from the liquid phase and returns back to the compressor through the heat exchanger. A simplified scheme of the overall process is reported in Fig. 2.9. 

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