SBIR Phase I: Improved Processing of High-Flux, High-Temperature Hydrogen Separation Membranes

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project will develop new processing approaches for fabrication of mixed proton-electron conducting membranes that will be used in the future for economical production of high-purity hydrogen derived from biomass and coal. The objective of this Phase I program will be to demonstrate the feasibility of novel processing methods to fabricate thin (< 15 micon thickness), supported mixed proton-electron-conducting membranes. The novel processing methods will be demonstrated via fabrication of supported membranes on small porous disk supports. The hydrogen separation properties of these membranes at elevated temperatures will be evaluated using a bench-scale test system. The impact of the proposed research would include facilitation of commercialization of hydrogen-powered vehicles and improvement of the economics and environmental impact of stationary power generation processes. Such development would also lessen the dependence of the Nation's economy on foreign oil imports.