Abstract

Techniques for Separating Hydrogen using a Membrane

Author(s): Olivia Smith

Fossil fuels provide for over 80% of current global energy needs. Using hydrogen as an energy source produces only water as a byproduct, unlike using fossil fuels. The use of hydrogen as an energy source could assist to address concerns such as global climate change and local air pollution, which are both linked to energy security. Furthermore, hydrogen is widely available across the universe and has the highest energy content per unit of weight of any known fuel. As a result, the need for hydrogen energy and production has increased in recent years. When compared to established technologies such as pressure swing adsorption and cryogenic distillation, the membrane separation technique is an appealing option. This study discusses the various types of membranes used to separate hydrogen from hydrogen-rich mixtures. Much of the present research has been concentrated on nonpolymeric materials such metal, molecular sieving charcoal, zeolites, and ceramics, according to the study. Thin membranes would not only save money on materials, but they would also boost hydrogen flux. For hydrogen purification, metal alloys or composite metal membranes have been utilised. Metallic membranes, on the other hand, are susceptible to gases like carbon monoxide and hydrogen sulphide. As a result, ceramic barriers that are impervious to harmful gases are desirable.