Transport Processes and Separation Process Principles (Includes Unit Operations) Fourth Edition

13.1. INTRODUCTION AND TYPES OF MEMBRANE SEPARATION PROCESSES

13.1A. Introduction

Separations by the use of membranes are becoming increasingly important in the process industries. In this relatively new separation process, the membrane acts as a semipermeable barrier and separation occurs by the membrane controlling the rate of movement of various molecules between two liquid phases, two gas phases, or a liquid and a gas phase. The two fluid phases are usually miscible and the membrane barrier prevents actual, ordinary hydro-dynamic flow. A classification of the main types of membrane separation follows.

13.1B. Classification of Membrane Processes

1. Gas diffusion in porous solid

In this type a gas phase is present on both sides of the membrane, ...