Membrane separation processes for acid gases

Abstract

This work provides a review of the emerging technology of using membranes to separate acid gases such as CO2, H2S, and SO2 from gas streams. The use of membranes for gas separations is an active area in both fundamental studies and commercial development. Numerous applications exist for the separation of the acid gases CO2, H2S, and/or SO2 from various natural gas or refinery gases. The choice of technology and the economics become complex because analysis of each application must address the following factors: acid gases to be removed, inlet compositions and pressure, acceptable outlet concentrations, temperature of inlet gas, and scale and location of application. In addition to these process parameters, the relevant membrane properties are the permeability, selectivity, and expected lifetime under operating conditions. 33 references.