Simple gas permeation and pervaporation membrane unit operation models for process simulators

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

52 Scopus citations

Abstract

Mathematical model equations and their corresponding solution methods for membrane gas permeation and pervaporation were developed for direct use in process simulators, without the need for external, custom programming. The models are based on the solution-diffusion mechanisms for species permeation through nonporous membranes. Cross-flow and counter flow models using the logarithmic-mean trans-membrane partial pressure were used to simulate spiral wound and hollow fiber membrane configurations. The Chen approximation of the log-mean partial is recommended for avoiding divergence in the iterative solution methods required to solve the non-linear model equations. The models incorporate temperature, pressure, composition, mass flow, membrane area, and species permeance effects into the simulations. The models were designed for implementation in process simulators using intrinsic capabilities for calculating material and energy balances and predicting physical and thermodynamic properties. Examples are given using the process simulator HYSYS.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)717-722
Number of pages6
JournalChemical Engineering and Technology
Volume25
Issue number7
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 2002

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Simple gas permeation and pervaporation membrane unit operation models for process simulators'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this