SBIR Phase I: A Novel Membrane for Hydrogen Separation

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project seeks to develop, demonstrate a novel, robust, low cost, high H2 flux, dense composite hydrogen separation membrane technology, which can be used to separate hydrogen gas at high temperature from the gas mixture generated 1) by coal gasification; 2) by hydrocarbon reformers in hydrogen fuel cell systems; 3) other industrial processes, such as water-gas-shift reaction. This hydrogen separation membrane is made of inorganic composite materials, and can be fabricated by a simple process. In Phase I, such membrane will be fabricated and evaluated in the simulated hydrogen gas mixture, and in the syngas at 375C at different pressures. The optimum membrane formulation and fabrication process will be identified. Successful completion of the current program will make significant contribution toward future power generation and hydrogen production technology, providing tremendous economical, environmental benefits for the general public. Success of the proposed work will not only provide substantially reduced carbon dioxide emissions while regaining our nation's energy independence by making use of low cost, abundant coal, but also support the President's Hydrogen Fuel Initiative to create hydrogen economy for transportation.