This paper reports a feasibility study on the preparation of zeolite membrane films on a thin, porous metal support sheet (50-µm thick). Zeolite sodium A (NaA) and silicalite zeolite frameworks are chosen to represent synthesis of respective hydrophilic-type and hydrophobic-type zeolite membranes on this new support. It is found that a dense, continuous inter-grown zeolite crystal layer at a thickness less than 2µm can be directly deposited on such a support by using direct and secondary growth techniques. The resulting membrane shows excellent adhesion on the metal sheet. Molecular-sieving functions of the prepared membranes are characterized with ethanol/water separation, CO2 separation, and air dehumidification. The results show great potential to make flexible metal-foil-like zeolite membranes for a range of energy conversion and environmental applications.
Revised: November 28, 2011 |
Published: October 19, 2011
Citation
Liu W., J. Zhang, N.L. Canfield, and L.V. Saraf. 2011.Preparation of Robust, Thin Zeolite Membrane Sheet for Molecular Separation.Industrial and Engineering Chemistry Research 50, no. 20:11677-11689.PNNL-SA-74466.doi:10.1021/ie200519b