Plural Layers (e.g., Laminated Barrier, Etc.) Patents (Class 96/11)
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Patent number: 6835232Abstract: A fluid separation assembly (10) having a fluid permeable membrane (38 and 62) and a wire mesh membrane (18 and 28) adjacent the fluid permeable membrane (38 and 62), wherein the wire mesh membrane (18 and 28) supports the fluid permeable membrane (38 and 62) and is coated with an intermetallic diffusion barrier. The barrier may be a thin film containing at least one of a nitride, oxide, boride, silicide, carbide and aluminide. Several groups of multiple fluid separation assemblies (104) can be used in a module (85) to separate hydrogen from a gas mixture containing hydrogen.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2003Date of Patent: December 28, 2004Inventors: Chester B. Frost, Brett R. Krueger
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Publication number: 20040244583Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for curing a defect in the fabrication of a composite gas separation module and to composite gas separation modules formed by a process that includes the method. The present invention also relates to a method for selectively separating hydrogen gas from a hydrogen gas-containing gaseous stream.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2004Publication date: December 9, 2004Applicant: Worcester Polytechnic InstituteInventors: Yi Hua Ma, Ivan P. Mardilovich, Erik E. Engwall
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Publication number: 20040244590Abstract: A composite gas separation module includes a porous metal substrate; an intermediate layer that includes a powder having a Tamman temperature higher than the Tamman temperature of the porous metal substrate and wherein the intermediate layer overlies the porous metal substrate; and a dense hydrogen-selective membrane, wherein the dense hydrogen-selective membrane overlies the intermediate layer. In another embodiment, a composite gas separation module includes a porous metal substrate; an intermediate powder layer; and a dense gas-selective membrane, wherein the dense gas-selective membrane overlies the intermediate powder layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2004Publication date: December 9, 2004Applicant: Worcester Polytechnic InstituteInventors: Yi Hua Ma, Ivan P. Mardilovich, Erik E. Engwall
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Publication number: 20040244589Abstract: A hydrogen purification system and method that utilizes a hydrogen separator with a novel composite structure. The hydrogen separator has a first porous layer of a hydrogen permeable material, such as a palladium alloy. A solid layer of the same hydrogen permeable material is then disposed onto the first porous layer. A pressure differential is created across the structure of the composite hydrogen separator. The porous layer of hydrogen permeable material supports the solid layer and enables the solid layer to withstand large pressure differentials. Furthermore, the porous layer of the hydrogen permeable material bonds to the solid layer, thereby greatly increasing the effective surface area of the solid layer that is exposed to hydrogen gas. Accordingly, a large flow rate of hydrogen gas can be obtained in a small amount of space.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 2, 2004Publication date: December 9, 2004Inventors: Peter R. Bossard, Ronald R. Petkie
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Publication number: 20040244591Abstract: Membrane modules that contain one or more hydrogen-selective membranes, methods for preparing the same, and hydrogen purification systems, fuel processors and devices containing the same. In some embodiments, the membrane modules include one or more hydrogen-selective membranes supported on a support or screen structure, of which a variety of embodiments are disclosed. In some embodiments, the membrane or membranes are at least substantially formed from an alloy comprising palladium and copper. In some embodiments, the membranes further include a material having a composition different than the alloy. In some embodiments, the at least one membrane is adhesively mounted on the screen structure during assembly.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2004Publication date: December 9, 2004Inventors: David J. Edlund, William A. Pledger, R. Todd Studebaker
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Publication number: 20040237779Abstract: The present invention relates to a composite gas separation module and to methods for fabricating a composite gas separation module. The present invention also relates to methods for selectively separating hydrogen gas from a hydrogen gas-containing gaseous stream. In one embodiment, the composite gas separation module includes a porous metal substrate; an intermediate porous metal layer, wherein the intermediate porous metal layer overlies the porous metal substrate; and a dense hydrogen-selective membrane, wherein the dense hydrogen-selective membrane overlies the intermediate porous metal layer. The intermediate porous metal layer can include can include palladium and a Group IB metal. For example, the intermediate porous metal layer can contain alternating layers of palladium and a Group IB metal.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: Worcester Polytechnic InstituteInventors: Yi Hua Ma, Ivan P. Mardilovich, Erik E. Engwall
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Publication number: 20040237780Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for fabricating a composite gas separation module and to gas separation modules formed by the method. The present invention also relates to a method for selectively separating hydrogen gas from a hydrogen gas-containing gaseous stream.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 19, 2004Publication date: December 2, 2004Applicant: Worcester Polytechnic InstituteInventors: Yi Hua Ma, Ivan P. Mardilovich, Erik E. Engwall
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Patent number: 6824593Abstract: Hydrogen purification membranes, hydrogen purification devices, and fuel processing and fuel cell systems that include hydrogen purification devices. The hydrogen purification membranes include a metal membrane, which is at least substantially comprised of palladium or a palladium alloy. In some embodiments, the membrane contains trace amounts of carbon, silicon, and/or oxygen. In some embodiments, the membranes form part of a hydrogen purification device that includes an enclosure containing a separation assembly, which is adapted to receive a mixed gas stream containing hydrogen gas and to produce a stream that contains pure or at least substantially pure hydrogen gas therefrom. In some embodiments, the membrane(s) and/or purification device forms a portion of a fuel processor, and in some embodiments, the membrane(s) and/or purification device forms a portion of a fuel processing or fuel cell system.Type: GrantFiled: December 5, 2003Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Assignee: IdaTech, LLCInventors: David J. Edlund, William A. Pledger, R. Todd Studebaker
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Patent number: 6818045Abstract: The liquid separator with integral sight glass separates liquids, if present, from gases and allows a technician to visually confirm the presence or absence of liquids in the gas. The present invention is typically used when taking a spot sample from a natural gas pipeline. Spot samples of natural gas are often analyzed by gas chromatographs which do not tolerate the presence of liquids in a sample. If the technician visually confirms the presence of liquids, adjustments to the spot sampling technique can be made to possibly eliminate the creation of such liquids due to poor technique.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2002Date of Patent: November 16, 2004Assignee: Welker Engineering CompanyInventor: Brian H. Welker
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Patent number: 6810899Abstract: The present invention relates to gas separation membranes including a metal-based layer having sub-micron scale thicknesses. The metal-based layer can be a palladium alloy supported by ceramic layers such as a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer. By using MEMS, a series of perforations (holes) can be patterned to allow chemical components to access both sides of the metal-based layer. Heaters and temperature sensing devices can also be patterned on the membrane. The present invention also relates to a portable power generation system at a chemical microreactor comprising the gas separation membrane. The invention is also directed to a method for fabricating a gas separation membrane. Due to the ability to make chemical microreactors of very small sizes, a series of reactors can be used in combination on a silicon surface to produce an integrated gas membrane device.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2003Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Assignee: Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: Aleksander J. Franz, Klavs F. Jensen, Martin A. Schmidt, Samara Firebaugh
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Publication number: 20040211319Abstract: The present invention relates to a facilitated transport membrane for separation of alkene hydrocarbons from hydrocarbon mixtures, comprising a porous support and a solid polymer electrolyte consisting of a transition metal salt and a polymer having phthalic structure, in which the electrolyte is in solid state at its operating temperature. The facilitated transport membrane is prepared by forming a solid polymer electrolyte consisting of a transition metal salt and a polymer on a porous support. The transition metal salt can selectively and reversibly form a complex with alkene hydrocarbons and the polymer can dissociate the transition metal salt. In particular, the polymer matrix allows the transition metal salt to be well dissociated because it has a phthalic structure capable of being coordinated to a transition metal ion.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 9, 2004Publication date: October 28, 2004Inventors: Yong Soo Kang, Hoon Sik Kim, Jong Hak Kim, Kookheon Char, Sang Wook Kang, Jongok Won
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Publication number: 20040200355Abstract: The present invention relates to a facilitated transport membrane for separation of alkene hydrocarbons from hydrocarbon mixtures, comprising a porous supported membrane and a transition metal salt-polymer membrane consisting of a transition metal and a polymer, in which the transition metal salt does not chemically react with the polymer but physically dispersed within the polymer which has no functional group capable of forming a complex with the transition metal salt. The facilitated transport membrane according to the present invention is prepared by forming a solid transition metal salt-polymer membrane consisting of a transition metal salt and a polymer capable of dispersing the transition metal salt on the molecular scale; and coating the solid membrane on a porous supported membrane with good permeance and superior mechanical strength.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 31, 2003Publication date: October 14, 2004Inventors: Jong Hak Kim, Yong Soo Kang, Bumsuk Jung, Jongok Won, Byoung Ryul Min, Hoon Sik Kim
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Publication number: 20040182242Abstract: A supporting base of sufficient length and small diameter for supporting a gas separation membrane comprising a sintered material is provided. This supporting base has a high gas permeability, and allows omission of operation such as welding. This supporting base is produced by continuously extruding raw metal powder materials a and b corresponding to each constituent layer of the bilayer structure in the order starting from the raw metal powder material a constituting the inner layer to the raw metal powder material b constituting the outer layer such that the layer newly extruded surrounds the preceding layer to thereby produce a green cylinder of bilayer structure having an outer diameter of 15 mm or less; cutting the resulting green cylinder to a length of 100 mm or more; and sintering the green cylinder to thereby produce the supporting base for gas separation membrane.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2004Publication date: September 23, 2004Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Kobe Seiko Sho (Kobe Steel, Ltd.)Inventors: Hiroyuki Mitani, Takao Kawanaka, Koji Yamamoto, Takeharu Tanaka, Koichi Hosoi
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Patent number: 6786952Abstract: The present invention relates to a solid multicomponent membrane for use in a reactor where the membrane comprises a mixed metal oxide having a structure represented by the formula: La1−xCax(Fe1−y−y′TiyAly′)wO3−4 wherein x, y, y′, w, and d each represent a number such that 0.1≦(y+y′)≦0.8, 0.15≦(x+y′) ≦0.95, 0.05≦(x−y)≦0.3, 0.95<w<1, and d equals a number that renders the compound charge neutral and is not less than zero and not greater than about 0.8. Furthermore, the present invention relates to a use of the membrane in a reactor for generating heat or for generating synthesis gas.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2002Date of Patent: September 7, 2004Assignee: Norsk Hydro ASAInventors: Turid Risdal, Stein Julsrud, Tyke Naas, Bent Erlend Vigeland
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Patent number: 6777369Abstract: The present invention relates to the effective utilization of a used catalyst containing at least molybdenum, an A element (at least one element selected from the group consisting of phosphorus and arsenic) and an X element (at least one element selected from the group consisting of potassium, rubidium and cesium), and provides a process for producing a catalyst, which comprises dispersing said used catalyst in water, adding thereto an alkali metal compound and/or ammonia solution, adjusting the resulting mixture to pH 6.5 or less to generate a precipitate containing at least molybdenum and the A element, and using the precipitate as a material for catalyst-constituting elements.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2001Date of Patent: August 17, 2004Assignee: Mitsubishi Rayon Co., Ltd.Inventors: Toru Kuroda, Seiichi Kawato, Masanori Nitta, Hideyasu Takezawa
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Patent number: 6773590Abstract: The filtering membranes of the present invention are made from a pair of polymer films stretched in a liquid surface-active medium for the formation of crazes filled with the aforementioned medium. The crazed films are perforated and then stack together in a stretched or released state and are welded together into a sealed structure with a plurality of parallel welding seams arranged, e.g., in mutually perpendicular directions, so that a plurality of sealed cells is formed. The cells have on one side of the membrane input openings and on the other side output openings. If an input opening is in one cell, then an output opening is in the adjacent cell. Adjacent cells are interconnected only through the welding seams. Welding can be carried out by contact heating or with the use of a laser beam, or the like. The material of the welding seam has an amorphous structure.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 2002Date of Patent: August 10, 2004Assignee: Alexander ShkolnikInventor: Vladimir Prutkin
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Patent number: 6767389Abstract: Membrane modules that contain one or more hydrogen-selective membranes, methods for preparing the same, and hydrogen purification systems, fuel processors and devices containing the same. In some embodiments, the membrane modules include one or more hydrogen-selective membranes supported on a support or screen structure, of which a variety of embodiments are disclosed. In some embodiments, the membrane or membranes are adhesively mounted on the screen structure during assembly. In some embodiments, the screen structure includes a plurality of screen members adhesively mounted together during assembly. In some embodiments, the screen structure includes a coating. The present invention is also directed to methods for reducing the thickness of hydrogen-selective membranes.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2003Date of Patent: July 27, 2004Assignee: IdaTech, LLCInventors: David J. Edlund, William A. Pledger, R. Todd Studebaker
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Patent number: 6761755Abstract: A composite membrane is provided having a flexible metallic substrate for separation of hydrogen from gas mixtures, which achieves a separation ratio of hydrogen to nitrogen of greater than about 4,000 at operating temperatures higher than 300° C. The composite membrane has a layer system arranged on at least one surface of the substrate, the layer system having a rigid, non-self-supporting, nonmetallic inorganic diffusion barrier layer adjacent the substrate, and at least one hydrogen-permeable, nonporous, metallic membrane on the side of the barrier facing away from the substrate. A method for production of such a composite membrane is also provided in which the diffusion barrier layer adjoining the membrane layer is formed by PVD, CVD, sol-gel process, or sintering-on powder particles, and the membrane layer is electrodeposited on the diffusion barrier layer.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2003Date of Patent: July 13, 2004Assignee: W. C. Heraeus GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Uwe Jantsch, David Lupton, Thomas Giesel
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Publication number: 20040129135Abstract: This invention provides hydrogen-permeable membranes for separation of hydrogen from hydrogen-containing gases. The membranes are multi-layer having a central hydrogen-permeable layer with one or more catalyst layers, barrier layers, and/or protective layers. The invention also relates to membrane reactors employing the hydrogen-permeable membranes of the invention and to methods for separation hydrogen from a hydrogen-containing gas using the membranes and reactors. The reactors of this invention can be combined with additional reactor systems for direct use of the separated hydrogen.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2003Publication date: July 8, 2004Inventors: Shane E. Roark, Richard Mackay, Michael V. Mundschau
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Patent number: 6740143Abstract: The invention concerns nanoporous carbon membranes which have been synthesized by pyrolysis of selected polymers on porous substrates to produce thin mixed matrix carbon film with pores for separation of small molecules.Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2002Date of Patent: May 25, 2004Assignee: E. I. du Pont de Nemours and CompanyInventors: David Richard Corbin, Henry Charles Foley, Mark Brandon Shiflett
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Publication number: 20040083891Abstract: The liquid separator with integral sight glass separates liquids, if present, from gases and allows a technician to visually confirm the presence or absence of liquids in the gas. The present invention is typically used when taking a spot sample from a natural gas pipeline. Spot samples of natural gas are often analyzed by gas chromatographs which do not tolerate the presence of liquids in a sample. If the technician visually confirms the presence of liquids, adjustments to the spot sampling technique can be made to possibly eliminate the creation of such liquids due to poor technique.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2002Publication date: May 6, 2004Inventor: Brian H. Welker
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Patent number: 6730364Abstract: A method for preparing carbon molecular sieve membrane is invented. A thin carbon-containing film is first deposited on a porous substrate. The thin film is then bombarded by high energy ions for surface modification. The surface modified film is then baked or calcined at a high temperature. The carbon molecular sieve membrane prepared according to the present invention can be used for gas separation as well as liquid separation, ions or solvents, etc., exhibiting improved permeance and improved selectivity simultaneously in gas separation. The ion bombardment includes generating plasma and ions in a gas phase, and applying a negative bias voltage to the substrate.Type: GrantFiled: March 28, 2002Date of Patent: May 4, 2004Assignee: National Science CouncilInventors: Franklin Chau-Nan Hong, Liang-Chun Wang, Yoou-Bin Guo
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Patent number: 6723156Abstract: Hydrogen purification membranes, hydrogen purification devices, and fuel processing and fuel cell systems that include hydrogen purification devices. The hydrogen purification membranes include a metal membrane, which is at least substantially comprised of palladium or a palladium alloy. In some embodiments, the membrane contains trace amounts of carbon, silicon, and/or oxygen. In some embodiments, the membranes form part of a hydrogen purification device that includes an enclosure containing a separation assembly, which is adapted to receive a mixed gas stream containing hydrogen gas and to produce a stream that contains pure or at least substantially pure hydrogen gas therefrom. In some embodiments, the membrane(s) and/or purification device forms a portion of a fuel processor, and in some embodiments, the membrane(s) and/or purification device forms a portion of a fuel processing or fuel cell system.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2003Date of Patent: April 20, 2004Assignee: IdaTech, LLCInventors: David J. Edlund, William A. Pledger, R. Todd Studebaker
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Patent number: 6719832Abstract: A hydrogen purification device, components thereof, and fuel processors and fuel cell system containing the same. The hydrogen purification devices include an enclosure that contains a separation assembly adapted to receive a mixed gas stream containing hydrogen gas and to produce a stream that contains pure or at least substantially pure hydrogen gas therefrom. The separation assembly includes at least one hydrogen-permeable and/or hydrogen-selective membrane, and in some embodiments includes at least one membrane envelope that includes a pair of generally opposed membrane regions that define a harvesting conduit therebetween and which are separated by a support. The enclosure includes components that are formed from materials having similar or the same coefficients of thermal expansion as the membrane or membranes. In some embodiments, these components include at least a portion of the support, and in some embodiments, these components include at least a portion of the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2003Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Assignee: IdaTech, LLCInventors: David J. Edlund, Charles R. Hill, William A. Pledger, R. Todd Studebaker
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Patent number: 6719831Abstract: Hydrogen purification membranes, hydrogen purification devices, and fuel processing and fuel cell systems that include hydrogen purification devices. The hydrogen purification membranes include a metal membrane, which is at least substantially comprised of palladium or a palladium alloy. In some embodiments, the membrane contains trace amounts of carbon, silicon, and/or oxygen. In some embodiments, the membranes form part of a hydrogen purification device that includes an enclosure containing a separation assembly, which is adapted to receive a mixed gas stream containing hydrogen gas and to produce a stream that contains pure or at least substantially pure hydrogen gas therefrom. In some embodiments, the membrane(s) and/or purification device forms a portion of a fuel processor, and in some embodiments, the membrane(s) and/or purification device forms a portion of a fuel processing or fuel cell system.Type: GrantFiled: May 5, 2003Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Assignee: IdaTech, LLCInventors: David J. Edlund, William A. Pledger, R. Todd Studebaker
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Patent number: 6719147Abstract: A novel supported mesoporous carbon ultrafiltration membrane and process for producing the same. The membranes comprise a mesoporous carbon layer that exists both within and external to the porous support. A liquid polymer precursor composition comprising both carbonizing and noncarbonizing templating polymers is deposited on the porous metal support. The coated support is then heated in an inert-gas atmosphere to pyrolyze the polymeric precursor and form a mesoporous carbon layer on and within the support. The pore-size of the membranes is dependent on the molecular weight of the noncarbonizing templating polymer precursor. The mesoporous carbon layer is stable and can withstand high temperatures and exposure to organic chemicals. Additionally, the porous metal support provides excellent strength properties. The composite structure of the membrane provides novel structural properties and allows for increased operating pressures allowing for greater membrane flow rates.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2001Date of Patent: April 13, 2004Assignee: The University of DelawareInventors: Michael Strano, Henry C. Foley, Hans Agarwal
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Patent number: 6716275Abstract: A process for fabricating a gas impermeable seal on a porous ceramic surface using a thin, glass-based, pinhole free glaze. The process can be used to fabricate gas impermeable end seals on porous alumina tubes used as filter media. The porous alumina tubes can have an inorganic microporous thin film separation membrane on the inner surface, which can be used for high temperature gas separation processes.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2001Date of Patent: April 6, 2004Assignee: Sandia CorporationInventors: Scott T. Reed, Ronald G. Stone, Tina M. Nenoff, Daniel E. Trudell, Steven G. Thoma
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Publication number: 20040050250Abstract: A membrane-based process for separating mixtures of target gases if the gas mixture also contains C3+ hydrocarbon vapors. The process uses gas-separation membranes having a base membrane and a coating layer. The base membrane incorporates a selective layer made from a polymer selective between the light gases to be separated. The coating layer comprises a fluorinated polymer capable of protecting the base membrane from C3+ hydrocarbon vapors and liquids.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2003Publication date: March 18, 2004Applicant: Membrane Technology and Research, Inc.Inventors: Ingo Pinnau, Zhenjie He, Rolande J. Blanc
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Patent number: 6702878Abstract: A hydrogen-permeable membrane includes a metal base layer containing a Group VA element, two metal middle layers which are formed on both of the two sides of the metal base layer and containg an element selected from Ni and Co, and two metal coating layers formed on the side of the two metal middle layers, on which the metal base layer is not formed, and containing Pd.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2002Date of Patent: March 9, 2004Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Naoki Ito, Masahiko Iijima
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Publication number: 20040028602Abstract: The present invention relates to gas separation membranes including a metal-based layer having sub-micron scale thicknesses. The metal-based layer can be a palladium alloy supported by ceramic layers such as a silicon oxide layer and a silicon nitride layer. By using MEMS, a series of perforations (holes) can be patterned to allow chemical components to access both sides of the metal-based layer. Heaters and temperature sensing devices can also be patterned on the membrane. The present invention also relates to a portable power generation system at a chemical microreactor comprising the gas separation membrane. The invention is also directed to a method for fabricating a gas separation membrane. Due to the ability to make chemical microreactors of very small sizes, a series of reactors can be used in combination on a silicon surface to produce an integrated gas membrane device.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 24, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Applicant: Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: Aleksander J. Franz, Klavs F. Jensen, Martin A. Schmidt, Samara Firebaugh
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Publication number: 20040003720Abstract: A membrane module for hydrogen separation includes a stack of flat membrane packs disposed adjacent one another so as not to exert a force on one another and a rotationally symmetrical pressure shell enclosing the stack of flat membrane packs. A feed space for a reformate gas is disposed between every two membrane packs in the stack. Each membrane pack has a pair of membrane assemblies and a support structure disposed therebetween and each membrane assembly includes a hydrogen-selective flat membrane supported by at least one membrane frame.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 3, 2003Publication date: January 8, 2004Applicant: DaimlerChrysler AGInventors: Thomas Beisswenger, Gerhard Berger, Thomas Poschmann, Karsten Reiners, Wolfgang Weger, Norbert Wiesheu
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Publication number: 20030233940Abstract: There is provided a hydrogen separation membrane capable of providing high hydrogen permeability and accommodating an increase in pressure difference, a hydrogen separation unit, and a manufacturing method for a hydrogen separation membrane. The hydrogen separation unit 1 has a hydrogen separation membrane 10 and a metallic porous support sheet 20 attached to the hydrogen separation membrane 10. By forming a plurality of pits in the surface of the hydrogen separation membrane 10, a thick-wall portion 15 having a large thickness and a thin-wall portion 16 having a small thickness are provided on the hydrogen separation membrane 10. Also, as a method for forming pits i.e. thin-wall portions 16, etching process is used.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2003Publication date: December 25, 2003Inventors: Hideaki Takatani, Toshiro Kobayashi, Masaki Kawano, Kazuto Kobayashi
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Patent number: 6660069Abstract: A hydrogen extraction unit has reformed gas flow channel plates, hydrogen separation plates, and purge gas flow channel plates, which are designed as thin metal plate members. The hydrogen extraction unit is constructed by laminating these thin plate members and then bonding them together by diffusion bonding. Each of reformed gas flow channel holes formed in the reformed gas flow channel plates constitutes a flow channel for reformed gas together with a correspondingly adjacent one of the hydrogen separation plates. Each of purge gas flow channel holes formed in the purge gas flow channel plates constitutes, together with a correspondingly adjacent one of the hydrogen separation plates, a flow channel for purge gas with which hydrogen extracted from reformed gas is mixed.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2002Date of Patent: December 9, 2003Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hiromichi Sato, Satoshi Iguchi, Satoshi Aoyama, Naoki Ito, Toshihide Nakata
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Publication number: 20030213365Abstract: A composite membrane is provided having a flexible metallic substrate for separation of hydrogen from gas mixtures, which achieves a separation ratio of hydrogen to nitrogen of greater than about 4,000 at operating temperatures higher than 300° C. The composite membrane has a layer system arranged on at least one surface of the substrate, the layer system having a rigid, non-self-supporting, nonmetallic inorganic diffusion barrier layer adjacent the substrate, and at least one hydrogen-permeable, nonporous, metallic membrane on the side of the barrier facing away from the substrate. A method for production of such a composite membrane is also provided in which the diffusion barrier layer adjoining the membrane layer is formed by PVD, CVD, sol-gel process, or sintering-on powder particles, and the membrane layer is electrodeposited on the diffusion barrier layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 7, 2003Publication date: November 20, 2003Applicant: W.C. Heraeus GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Uwe Jantsch, David Lupton, Thomas Giesel
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Patent number: 6649559Abstract: The invention provides a supported metal membrane which contains a metal membrane on a support surface of a porous membrane support. The supported metal membrane is obtainable by applying the metal membrane to the support surface of the membrane support, wherein the pores in the membrane support are sealed, at least in the region of the support surface, prior to applying the metal membrane and are opened by removing the auxiliary substance only after applying the metal membrane.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2001Date of Patent: November 18, 2003Assignee: dmc2 Degussa Metals Catalysts Cerdec AGInventors: Ernst Drost, Werner Kuhn, Meike Roos, Stefan Wieland, Bernd Kempf
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Publication number: 20030205138Abstract: Hydrogen purification membranes, hydrogen purification devices, and fuel processing and fuel cell systems that include hydrogen purification devices. The hydrogen purification membranes include a metal membrane, which is at least substantially comprised of palladium or a palladium alloy. In some embodiments, the membrane contains trace amounts of carbon, silicon, and/or oxygen. In some embodiments, the membranes form part of a hydrogen purification device that includes an enclosure containing a separation assembly, which is adapted to receive a mixed gas stream containing hydrogen gas and to produce a stream that contains pure or at least substantially pure hydrogen gas therefrom. In some embodiments, the membrane(s) and/or purification device forms a portion of a fuel processor, and in some embodiments, the membrane(s) and/or purification device forms a portion of a fuel processing or fuel cell system.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 5, 2003Publication date: November 6, 2003Inventors: David J. Edlund, William A. Pledger, R. Todd Studebaker
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Patent number: 6641647Abstract: A hydrogen permeable structure includes a base material (1) including porous ceramic, and a hydrogen permeable film (2) formed on the base material (1), including palladium (Pd) and at least one element other than palladium and having an amount of hydrogen dissolution at a prescribed temperature smaller than that of palladium alone. The hydrogen permeable film (2) is formed on the surface of the porous ceramic base by a physical vapor deposition technique after any pin holes in the surface of the base have been filled with a porous oxide material.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2002Date of Patent: November 4, 2003Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Takashi Uemura, Kentaro Yoshida, Nobuyuki Okuda, Takeshi Hikata
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Patent number: 6632270Abstract: Hydrogen purification membranes, hydrogen purification devices, and fuel processing and fuel cell systems that include hydrogen purification devices. The hydrogen purification membranes include a metal membrane, which is at least substantially comprised of palladium or a palladium alloy. In some embodiments, the membrane contains trace amounts of carbon, silicon, and/or oxygen. In some embodiments, the membranes form part of a hydrogen purification device that includes an enclosure containing a separation assembly, which is adapted to receive a mixed gas stream containing hydrogen gas and to produce a stream that contains pure or at least substantially pure hydrogen gas therefrom. In some embodiments, the membrane(s) and/or purification device forms a portion of a fuel processor, and in some embodiments, the membrane(s) and/or purification device forms a portion of a fuel processing or fuel cell system.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2003Date of Patent: October 14, 2003Assignee: IdaTech, LLCInventors: David J. Edlund, William A. Pledger, R. Todd Studebaker
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Publication number: 20030183080Abstract: Improvements are disclosed for fabrication of composite hydrogen transport membranes, which are used for extraction of hydrogen from gas mixtures. Methods are described for supporting and re-enforcing layers of metals and metal alloys which have high permeability for hydrogen but which are either too thin to be self supporting, too weak to resist desired differential pressures across the membrane, or which become embrittled by hydrogen. In order to minimize stress at internal interfaces, which can lead to formation of dislocations and initiations of cracks, the support material is chosen so as to be lattice matched to the metals and metal alloys. Preferred metals with high permeability for hydrogen include vanadium, niobium, tantalum, palladium, and alloys thereof. In one embodiment, a porous support matrix is fabricated first, and then the pores are blocked by metals and metal alloys which are permeable to hydrogen.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 5, 2003Publication date: October 2, 2003Inventor: Michael V. Mundschau
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Patent number: 6620472Abstract: The present invention relates to laminated membranes formed by multi-layer processing techniques including alternating layers of thermoplastic urethane and a copolymer of ethylene and vinyl alcohol. The membranes are characterized in that hydrogen bonds are formed between the layers of thermoplastic urethane and the copolymer of ethylene and vinyl alcohol. The membranes are characterized in that hydrogen bonds are formed between the layers of thermoplastic urethane and the copolymer of ethylene and vinyl alcohol.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 1996Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Assignees: Nike, Inc., Tetra PlasticsInventors: Erwin C. Shepard, DeWayne R. Hartlerood, Paul H. Mitchell
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Patent number: 6602325Abstract: A fluid separation assembly having a fluid permeable membrane and a wire mesh membrane adjacent the fluid permeable membrane, wherein the wire mesh membrane supports the fluid permeable membrane and is coated with an intermetallic diffusion barrier. The barrier may be a thin film containing at least one of a nitride, oxide, boride, silicide, carbide and aluminide. Several fluid separation assemblies can be used in a module to separate hydrogen from a gas mixture containing hydrogen.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1999Date of Patent: August 5, 2003Assignee: ATI Properties, Inc.Inventors: Chester B. Frost, Brett R. Krueger
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Patent number: 6596057Abstract: Membrane modules that contain one or more hydrogen-selective membranes, methods for preparing the same, and hydrogen purification systems, fuel processors and devices containing the same. In some embodiments, the membrane modules include one or more hydrogen-selective membranes supported on a support or screen structure, of which a variety of embodiments are disclosed. In some embodiments, the membrane or membranes are adhesively mounted on the screen structure during assembly. In some embodiments, the screen structure includes a plurality of screen members adhesively mounted together during assembly. In some embodiments, the screen structure includes a coating. The present invention is also directed to methods for reducing the thickness of hydrogen-selective membranes.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2002Date of Patent: July 22, 2003Assignee: IdaTech, LLCInventors: David J. Edlund, William A. Pledger, R. Todd Studebaker
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Patent number: 6582499Abstract: A fluid separation assembly having a fluid permeable membrane and a wire mesh membrane adjacent the fluid permeable membrane, wherein the wire mesh membrane supports the fluid permeable membrane and is coated with an intermetallic diffusion barrier. The barrier may be a thin film containing at least one of a nitride, oxide, boride, silicide, carbide and aluminide. Several fluid separation assemblies can be used in a module to separate hydrogen from a gas mixture containing hydrogen.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2002Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Assignee: ATI Properties, Inc.Inventors: Chester B. Frost, Brett R. Krueger
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Patent number: 6582495Abstract: A process is described for preparing a supported zeolite membrane constituted by a composite continuous zeolite/support layer of controlled thickness, wherein the zeolitic phase is principally localized in the pores of a porous support and optionally on the external surface thereof, the process comprising at least the formation of a precursor gel of the zeolite, bringing the gel into contact with the support and crystallizing the zeolite. The zeolite is crystallized by carrying out a thermal program comprising at least three steps in succession: a first constant temperature stage carried out at a temperature in the range 50° C. to 300° C., cooling to a temperature of strictly less than 50° C. followed by a second constant temperature stage carried out at a temperature range of 50° C. to 300° C. The prepared membrane is used in particular in processes for separating gas or separating liquids.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2002Date of Patent: June 24, 2003Assignee: Institut Francais du PetroleInventors: Christophe Chau, Isabelle Prevost, Jean-Alain Dalmon, Sylvain Miachon
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Patent number: 6572683Abstract: A substance separation structure comprises a base material including a porous material having a continuous hole with an opening of the hole formed on at least one surface, a porous layer, formed to fill up the opening, having a hole smaller than the hole of the base material and a permeable membrane of not more than 1 &mgr;m in thickness formed on at least one surface of the base material formed with the porous layer to selectively permeate ions or neutral elements or molecules, and the surface roughness of at least one surface of the base material formed with the porous layer is not more than 0.3 &mgr;m in Rmax. The surface of the base material is polished with abrasive grains containing a porous material so that the opening of the base material can be filled up with the porous layer, and the permeable membrane is formed by ion plating.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2001Date of Patent: June 3, 2003Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.Inventors: Kentaro Yoshida, Takeshi Hikata, Nobuyuki Okuda, Takashi Uemura
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Patent number: 6569226Abstract: A membrane for separating hydrogen from fluids is provided comprising a sintered homogenous mixture of a ceramic composition and a metal. The metal may be palladium, niobium, tantalum, vanadium, or zirconium or a binary mixture of palladium with another metal such as niobium, silver, tantalum, vanadium, or zirconium.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2001Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the United States Department of EnergyInventors: Stephen E. Dorris, Tae H. Lee, Uthamalingam Balachandran
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Patent number: 6569227Abstract: A hydrogen purification device, components thereof, and fuel processors and fuel cell system containing the same. The hydrogen purification devices include an enclosure that contains a separation assembly adapted to receive a mixed gas stream containing hydrogen gas and to produce a stream that contains pure or at least substantially pure hydrogen gas therefrom. The separation assembly includes at least one hydrogen-permeable and/or hydrogen-selective membrane, and in some embodiments includes at least one membrane envelope that includes a pair of generally opposed membrane regions that define a harvesting conduit therebetween and which are separated by a support. The enclosure includes components that are formed from materials having similar or the same coefficients of thermal expansion as the membrane or membranes. In some embodiments, these components include at least a portion of the support, and in some embodiments, these components include at least a portion of the enclosure.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2002Date of Patent: May 27, 2003Assignee: IdaTech, LLCInventors: David J. Edlund, Charles R. Hill, William A. Pledger, R. Todd Studebaker
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Patent number: 6565632Abstract: An ion-transport membrane assembly including a tubular, ion-transport membrane that is fabricated from one or more ion-transport, ceramic materials capable of ionic transport at an operational temperature of greater than 400° C. The membrane may be an oxygen transport membrane or a hydrogen transport membrane. A plurality of structural supporting members, fabricated from an open porous material and having an outer cylindrical surface, are inserted within the membrane, without being bonded to the membrane, to inhibit inward collapse of the membrane under application of a pressure applied to an exterior surface of the membrane. The structural supporting members are configured to permit relative movement between the outer surface of the structural supporting member and the interior surface of the tubular membrane during heating to or cooling from the operational temperature thereof.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2001Date of Patent: May 20, 2003Assignee: Praxair Technology, Inc.Inventors: Bart Antonie van Hassel, Ravi Prasad, Jack Chen, Jonathan Lane
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Publication number: 20030089228Abstract: An improved mixed matrix membrane for the separation of gases comprises polyethylene glycol, silicone rubber and activated carbon on a porous support. The membrane preferably also comprises a carbonate such as potassium carbonate. The gases which may be separated by the membrane include mixtures of oxygen and nitrogen and mixtures of carbon dioxide and nitrogen. Membranes of this design may be used in processing natural gas or other gases.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2002Publication date: May 15, 2003Inventors: Santi Kulprathipanja, Jutima Charoenphol
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Patent number: 6562110Abstract: Mixed matrix membranes capable of separating carbon dioxide from mixtures including carbon dioxide and methane, and processes for purifying methane using the membranes, are disclosed. The membranes are preferably polymer membranes, that include discrete carbon-based molecular sieve particles with sizes of between about 0.5 microns to about 5.0 microns. The particles are formed by pyrolyzing a precursor polymer in the form of a powder or film. The pyrolyzed polymer is then ideally milled to desired small size particles. The preferred ratio of particles to polymer is about 0.25 to about 1.0 by volume. A preferred method for preparing the mixed matrix membrane is by dispersing the particles in a solvent, adding a small quantity of the desired polymer or “sizing agent” to “size” or “prime” the particles, adding a polymer, casting a film of the polymer solution, and evaporating the solvent to form a mixed matrix membrane film.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 2001Date of Patent: May 13, 2003Assignees: Chevron USA Inc., The University of Texas SystemInventors: William J. Koros, De Q. Vu, Rajiv Mahajan, Stephen J. Miller