Robert Gordon: Ceramic membrane for separating CO2 and hydrogen sulfide from natural gas

Licensing opportunity | Development opportunity

Hybrid membrane technology developed at Robert Gordon University, Scotland enables the separation of acidic the gases carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide from raw natural gas, leaving purified methane.

Studies have shown both high permeation rates and high separation factors can be achieved with these surface diffusion flow membranes, which consist of a coarse porous tubular alpha-alumina-TiO2 support material with dipped membrane separation layers.

The pressurised feed gas enters the bundle and the CO2 and/or H2S is collected at a lower pressure. High selectivity means 95 per cent of methane is recovered.

The membrane is based on a ceramic core, which is stable at high pressures and temperatures. It is therefore believed it can be used for down-hole separation and simultaneous re-injection.

The technology means there is no need for gas to liquid phase change, offers increased operational reliability versus amine plants, and is mechanically stronger than polymeric systems. The system also withstands high temperature and is corrosion resistant.

Applications include natural gas processing, biogas purification, and carbon capture. A number of patents have been granted, and others are pending.

For more information, visit the project’s page at: http://www.university-technology.com/details/ceramic-membrane-separation-of-carbon-dioxide-and-hydrogen-sulfide-from-natural-gas