Hydrogen-permeable metal membrane and hydrogen purification assemblies containing the same
US6547858B1 · kind B1 · utility
69Cited by
41References
24Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 19, 2000 |
| Grant date | Apr 15, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 19, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01J2208/00548
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
A hydrogen-permeable metal membrane with increased hydrogen flux compared to conventional metal membranes is disclosed. Without sacrificing selectivity, the membrane enables a greater throughput of purified hydrogen. A method for preparing the invention includes at least one etching step in which a controlled volume of etchant is used to selectively remove material from the membrane's surface. Methods for repairing holes or other defects in the membrane are also disclosed. The invention also includes a membrane module adapted for use in purifying hydrogen streams, such as those produced by fuel processors.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.