SBIR Phase I: Multilayer Membrane-based Permeation for Cost-effective Olefin/Paraffin Separation

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop a gas permeation process and membrane to separate olefin/paraffin mixtures in which a multilayer multifunctional membrane configuration ensures high selectivity, high olefin productivity, good mechanical stability, excellent impurity tolerability, and long-term operational reliability. Hollow fiber membrane modules will be developed to enhance the olefin permeance 2~10-fold compared to those by conventional polymer facilitated transport membranes in addition to much enhanced olefin/paraffin selectivity. This membrane system has long-term stability and reliability to dry feed containing trace amounts of H2, C2H2, and/or H2S that cannot be treated by traditional membrane processes. Compared to the other membrane processes, this process is more promising and cost-effective. If successfully developed, it could be applied very widely to olefin/paraffin separations.