Polymer-Derived Silicon Carbide Membranes for Hydrogen Separation

75485-The use of hydrogen as a fuel for mobile and stationary power sources is a critical issue in accomplishing the goals of the National Hydrogen Energy Roadmap and the DOE FreedomCAR initiative. One of the many barriers to the implementation of these plans is the need for systems that can separate or purify hydrogen from a variety of sources. Hydrogen separation materials based on inorganic membranes are viable candidates for this application, and therefore this project will develop technology to derive nanoporous, silicon carbide membranes from polymer precursors. In order to demonstrate the feasibility of using these membranes to separate hydrogen from gases, Phase I will: (1) develop a capability to control the pore size of membranes by adjusting processing parameters, (2) determine the relationships among permeability and hydrogen selectivity of membranes and membrane pore size, (3) demonstrate the environmental stability of membranes, and (4) determine the effect of the porous support structure on membrane permeability and durability. In Phase II, the membrane materials will be improved, and engineering prototypes of commercially viable devices will be fabricated and tested. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: Commercial applications for these membranes include the purification and separation of hydrogen from process gas streams (including IGCC systems) and commercial gas streams, as well as the production of high purity hydrogen for use as fuel in stationary or mobile power sources.