Affinity Ceramic Membranes with Carbon Dioxide Transport Channel

60924 The development of affinity membranes has the potential to offer a quantum leap in membrane-based separation technology. Current polymeric membrane researchers modify surface functionality to offer a specific affinity; however, in the area of inorganic membranes, few similar activities exist. This project will develop an affinity inorganic membrane that can demonstrate separations based upon affinity while still maintaining its material stability under harsh environments. The membrane will be formed with a unique type of inorganic material (with a specific affinity to CO2) that will be supported on porous ceramic substrates. In addition to CO2 affinity, the membrane will not exhibit the hydrothermal stability deficiencies of existing microporous inorganic membranes, seen in many industrial applications. In Phase I, several membranes were prepared and enhanced CO2 transport was demonstrated. Preliminary surface characterization results indicated that the intrinsic hydrothermal stability of this inorganic material was excellent. Phase II will optimize the membrane synthesis technique in order to develop an optimized affinity membrane. A comprehensive functional performance evaluation to demonstrate active transport and excellent hydrothermal stability will be conducted. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: Many existing and emerging applications should benefit from the use of a CO2 affinity inorganic membrane, including CO2 removal in natural gas processing, landfill gas recovery, power generation, and hydrogen production.