Twente: High-temperature nanosieves that could replace distillation

Licensing opportunity

Scientists of the University of Twente in the Netherlands, with colleagues from the Energy Research Centre of the Netherlands (ECN) and Amsterdam University have developed a nano-structured membrane that can with stand high temperatures for a long period of time.

This “molecular sieve’” lets only the smallest molecules through. It is capable of removing water from solvents and biofuels and would be a very energy efficient alternative to existing techniques like distillation.

In long-term testing the membranes remain effective despite being exposed continuously to a temperature of 150 ºC. Existing ceramic and polymer membranes will last less time when exposed to a similar combination of water and high temperatures.

Ceramic membranes, made of silica, degrade because they react with water and steam. In the new membrane, part of the ceramic links are therefore replaced by organic links, which prevents water from degrading the membranes. Manufacturing the new hybrid membrane is simpler than making ceramic membranes, because the material is flexible and will not show cracks. What the nanomembranes retain in common with ceramic membranes is rapid flow, enabling the surface area to be small.

Apart from removing water from solvents and biofuels, the membrane could be used for separating hydrogen gas from gas mixtures. This implies a broad range of applications in sustainable energy. They are suitable also for desalinating water.