Permselective Membrane-based In-line Sulfur Monitoring System

Aspen Systems proposes to develop a highly selective, high sensitivity and fast-response in-line sulfur monitoring system based on advanced membrane technology. In the proposed sulfur sensors, the active membrane layer selectively extracts sulfur compounds from the logistic fuel processing streams. The sulfur in the membrane will transport through the active membrane and oxide at the permeate side of the membrane. By monitoring the electrical impedance of the active membrane layer, we will determine sulfur contents in the feed side (fuel gas streams). Sulfur permselectivity will be achieved by employing a nano-particle based solid thin film deposition technique. Furthermore, we will determine optimum MEMS sensor architecture to achieve high sensitivity, fast response time and long term durability. In Phase I, we will experimentally demonstrate the proposed concept of high sulfur diffusivity, selectivity, and sensitivity of the thin film membrane-based sulfur sensor technology. Based on these experimental results, we will also complete the engineering design of the prototype sulfur monitoring system, including design and performance specifications, and automatic control algorism. In Phase II, we will fabricate and tests the MEMS sulfur sensors with respect to selectivity, sensitivity, response time and long-term durability, including on-off cycling tests.