Hybrid Multilayer Membranes for the Selective Separation of Hydrogen from Complex Gas Streams

50402-98-I Hybrid Multilayer Membranes for the Selective Separation of Hydrogen from Complex Gas Streams--CCVD, Inc., dba MicroCoating Technologies, 3901 Green Industrial Way, Chamblee, GA 30341-1913; (770) 457-8400 Dr. Henry Luten, Principal Investigator Mr. Jerome J. Schmitt, Business Official DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-98ER82546 Amount: $75,000 The efficient separation and purification of hydrogen gas is becoming very important to industry due to hydrogen¿s increased utilization in processes ranging from chemical processing to fuel cells. New membrane materials are sought to improve separation efficiencies, transport rates, and membrane lifetimes while lowering overall costs to dramatically increase hydrogen recovery. This project will develop and demonstrate a family of hybrid, multilayer membranes with improved efficiencies and lifetimes at reduced cost via the combustion chemical vapor deposition (CCVD) process. These membranes will combine the strengths of individual component layers while eliminating the inherent weaknesses of individual layer materials, thus decreasing the cost of H2 recovery by over 75%. Phase I will develop a prototype system for production of the hybrid membranes as well as develop specific solutions and deposition conditions for the preparation of the hybrid layers by combustion chemical vapor deposition. Coupon-sized membrane samples will be prepared and tested for hydrogen separation efficiency. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The primary advantage of these hybrid membranes will be for the in situ separation of hydrogen from the source and effluent gas streams of various industrial processes. Hybrid membranes should be able to function in harsh environments and be resistant to degradation by sulfur-bearing impurities and other materials in the gas stream._