Membrane Reactors

Abstract

Membrane reactors (MRs) are systems in which a membrane separation process is combined with a chemical (catalytic) reaction. Because there are different ways to combine a catalyst with a membrane in order to have a synergic effect on the entire process, there are numerous possible categorizations of these systems. Some useful classifications are presented to highlight the advantages and still‐existing limitations of MRs in comparison with traditional reactors. Classification can be based on the role of the membrane in the catalytic process (catalytically active or providing only a separation function), the type of transport through the membrane (extractor‐, distributor‐, and contactor‐type MRs), the natures of the membrane material (organic or inorganic) and catalyst (artificial or biological). Applications of MRs in high‐temperature reactions using inorganic membranes and in low‐temperature MRs using polymer membranes are presented, as well as large‐scale applications in membrane bioreactors for wastewater treatment. 1. Introduction 2. Extractor‐, Distributor‐, and Contactor‐Type Membrane Reactors 3. Organic and Inorganic Membrane Reactors 4. Biocatalytic Membrane Reactors 5. Catalytically Active and Catalytically Inert Membranes

Gas to Liquids: Natural Gas Conversion to Aromatic Fuels and Chemicals in a Hydrogen-Permeable Ceramic Hollow Fiber Membrane Reactor

“…Membrane reactors are one concept for the intensification of chemical processes . A (catalytic) membrane reactor combines a chemical reaction with an in situ separation in one unit . Also, MDA was studied in catalytic membrane reactors, for the purpose of increasing CH 4 conversion and the yield of aromatics via the continuous removal of H 2 to overcome the equilibrium limitation .…”