Nanocomposite membranes for membrane reactors

Abstract This chapter discusses nanocomposite membranes in relation to their use in membrane re actors. The concept of hybrid nanocomposites is explained, along with the advantages of using them as a challenging alternative to the organic and inorganic systems that are most frequently used. The chapter further analyses fabrication techniques and characterization methods, based on structure-property relationships. Finally, several important applications of nanocomposite membranes are discussed, in the fields of catalysis, biocatalysis and energy. 

Key words nanocomposite, nanoparticles, fillers, polymers, carbon nanotubes, zeolites, membrane reactors, hybrid structures, mixed matrices, gas separation, catalysis, biocatalysis, fuel cells, energy. 

Hybrid systems represent a real challenge for many scientists, including membranologists looking to overcome recurrent shortcomings that affect molecular separation through membranes. One of the most critical issues is the loss of selectivity that occurs with the increase in permeability and vice versa. 

The nanoscale design of advanced mixed matrices with intricate structures and functions is a challenging but crucial step, especially if we take into account the numerous advantages that these mixed matrices can offer over conventional membranes, listed below  

Good processability applicable to a broad range of materials. Strengthened mechanics. 

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Daramola M. O., Burger A. J., Giroir-Fendler A., Miachon S., Lorenzen L. 2010. Extractor-type catalytic membrane reactor with nanocomposite MFI-alumina membrane tube as separation unit Prospect for ultra-pure para-Xylene production from m-Xylene isomerization over Pt-HZSM-5 catalyst. Applied Catalysis A General 386(1-2) 109-115. 

Daramola MO, Deng Z, Pera-Titus M, Giroir-Eendler A, Miachon S, Burger AJ, Lorenzen L, Guo Y. Nanocomposite MFI-alumina membranes prepared via pore-pugging synthesis Application as packed-bed membrane reactors for m-xylene isomerization over a Pt-HZSM-5 catalyst. Catal Today 2010 156(3M) 261-267. 

Daramola M O, Burger A J and Giroir-Fendler A (2011), Modelling and sensitivity analysis of a nanocomposite MFI-alumina based extractor-type zeolite catalytic membrane reactor for m-Xylene isomerization over Pt-HZSM-5 catalyst , Chem Eng J, 171,618-627. 

Chapter 4 (Santucci, Tosti, Basile) is mainly focused on the development of membranes based on metals other than Pd, such as Ni, Nb, V and Ti, which are considered today promising substitutes for the Pd-alloys. Particular attention is given to the synthesis of these membranes as well as to the effect of alloying on their chemical-physical properties. The chapter also provides a description of two porous (ceramic and glass) membranes used as a support for the new metal alloys, in gas separation and in membrane reactors, respectively. The objective of Chapter 5 (Gugliuzza) is to document what is known about nanocomposite polymeric membranes and the procedures of fabrication. Their potentialities in catalytic membrane reactors, bioreactors and membrane operations for alternative power production are highlighted. 

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