Abstract: The present invention involves the use of a two-step membrane system for gas separations. In this two-step membrane system, the membrane system comprises high selectivity and high permeance membranes. The two-step membrane system includes a first membrane section, a second membrane section and an ejector configured to increase the pressure of a lower permeate using the energy from a higher permeate gas pressure. The process provides increase in product recovery and product purity of the product gases. It can also save the cost compared to the system using compressors and external energy to drive the separation of gases.

Abstract: The present invention involves the use of a two-step membrane system for gas separations. In this two-step membrane system, the membrane system comprises high selectivity and high permeance membranes. The two-step membrane system includes a first membrane section, a second membrane section and an ejector configured to increase the pressure of a lower permeate using the energy from a higher permeate gas pressure. The process provides increase in product recovery and product purity of the product gases. It can also save the cost compared to the system using compressors and external energy to drive the separation of gases.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for increasing recovery of helium are described. The process includes introducing the stream containing helium and at least one oxidizable component into an oxidation zone in the presence of oxygen to oxidize the oxidizable component forming a first vapor stream and a first liquid stream. The first vapor stream is introduced into a pressure swing adsorption zone to form a purified helium stream and a tail gas stream. The tail gas stream is compressed. The compressed tail gas stream is introduced into a membrane separation zone to form a helium rich permeate stream and a retentate stream. The helium rich permeate stream is compressed and introduced into the oxidation system.