Separation module, separation device, and method for manufacturing separation module

Abstract

Provided are: a separation module with which a space between a separation membrane composite and an exterior member can be stably sealed, and the leakage of a fluid can be suppressed; a separation device; and a method for manufacturing a separation module. A separation module according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a separation membrane composite, an exterior member, and a first sealing member. The exterior member is attached to the separation membrane composite. The exterior member exposes a first end surface and a second end surface of the separation membrane composite. The first sealing member seals a space between the separation membrane composite and the exterior member. The separation membrane composite includes a support having a porous structure, and a separation membrane. The exterior member includes a first pressing plate and a cylinder part. The first pressing plate faces a peripheral edge part in the first end surface of the separation membrane composite. The first sealing member is sandwiched between the first pressing plate and a peripheral end part in the first end surface of the separation membrane composite.

Description

Separation module, separation device, and method for manufacturing a separation module

[0001] The present invention relates to a separation module, a separation device, and a method for manufacturing a separation module.

[0002] Conventionally, it is known to separate specific components from a mixture containing multiple components using a separation membrane. As an example of a separation apparatus equipped with such a separation membrane, a membrane separation apparatus has been proposed that comprises a tubular or monolithic hydrogen separation membrane section having a fluid passage, and a pressure vessel housing the hydrogen separation membrane section, wherein both axial ends of the hydrogen separation membrane section are supported by the upper and lower tube plates of the pressure vessel, respectively (see, for example, Patent Document 1). In such a membrane separation apparatus, when a mixture is supplied to the fluid passage, the permeated components that have passed through the hydrogen separation membrane section flow out from the side of the hydrogen separation membrane section into the internal space of the pressure vessel, and the remainder of the mixture flows out from the fluid passage without passing through the hydrogen separation membrane section.

[0003] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2013-119914

[0004] In recent years, the types of materials to be separated by separation devices have become more diverse, and various optimal separation conditions are being investigated to suit each material. As a result, the pressure difference between the pressure of the mixture supplied to the separation membrane and the pressure of the permeate components that have permeated through the separation membrane (hereinafter referred to as the intermembrane pressure difference) can become large in separation devices. Furthermore, when a large number of separation membranes are manufactured industrially, variations in the outer diameter of the separation membranes are unavoidable. In the membrane separation device described in Patent Document 1, an O-ring is provided between the side surface of the end of the hydrogen separation membrane and the upper or lower tube plate, separating the space into which the mixture is supplied from the space into which the permeate components flow out. However, in the membrane separation device described in Patent Document 1, if the intermembrane pressure difference becomes large, the O-ring seal may become insufficient due to variations in the outer diameter of the end of the hydrogen separation membrane, and fluid may leak from between the end of the hydrogen separation membrane and the upper or lower tube plate. Furthermore, if multiple types of O-rings of different sizes are prepared in advance and selected according to the outer diameter of the end of the hydrogen separation membrane to suppress such fluid leakage, the manufacturing cost of the separation module may increase. The main object of the present invention is to provide a separation module, a separation device, and a method for manufacturing a separation module that can stably seal the space between the separation membrane composite and the outer casing member and suppress fluid leakage.

[0005] [1] A separation module according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a separation membrane composite, an outer casing member, and a first sealing member. The separation membrane composite has a first end face, a second end face, and a side surface. The first end face and the second end face are located apart from each other in a predetermined direction. The side surface is located between the first end face and the second end face. The outer casing member is attached to the separation membrane composite. The outer casing member exposes the first end face and the second end face of the separation membrane composite. The first sealing member seals the space between the separation membrane composite and the outer casing member. The separation membrane composite comprises a support and a separation membrane. The support has a porous structure. The support has a through-hole. The through-hole extends from the first end face to the second end face of the separation membrane composite. The separation membrane is provided on the support. The outer casing member comprises a first retaining plate and a cylindrical portion. The first retaining plate faces the peripheral edge of the first end face of the separation membrane composite. The cylindrical portion supports the first retaining plate. The cylindrical portion faces the side surface of the separation membrane composite. The first sealing member is sandwiched between the peripheral end of the first end face of the separation membrane composite and the first retaining plate. [2] In the separation module described in [1] above, the first sealing member may comprise a plate-like portion and a first bulge. The plate-like portion extends tangentially to the first end face of the separation membrane composite. The first bulge bulges outwards from the plate-like portion toward the first end face. [3] In the separation module described in [2] above, the first sealing member may further comprise a second bulge. The second bulge bulges outwards from the plate-like portion toward the first retaining plate. [4] In the separation module described in [3] above, the first retaining plate may have a notch corresponding to the second bulge. [5] In the separation module described in any of [1] to [4] above, the first sealing member may have a body portion located between the side surface of the separation membrane composite and the cylindrical portion of the exterior member. [6] In the separation module described in any of [1] to [5] above, the first retaining plate may have a main body portion and a bulge portion. The main body portion extends in the tangential direction to the first end face. The bulge portion bulges out from the main body portion toward the first sealing member.[7] In the separation module described in any of [1] to [6] above, the exterior member may further comprise a first adjustment plate. The first adjustment plate is located between the first retaining plate and the cylindrical portion. [8] In the separation module described in any of [1] to [7] above, the exterior member may further comprise a second retaining plate. The second retaining plate faces the peripheral edge of the second end face of the separation membrane composite. The second retaining plate may be supported by the cylindrical portion. The separation module may further comprise a second sealing member. The second sealing member is sandwiched between the peripheral edge of the second end face of the separation membrane composite and the second retaining plate. [9] A separation device according to another aspect of the present invention comprises a separation module described in any of [1] to [8] above and a housing that houses the separation module.

[10] A method for manufacturing a separation module according to yet another aspect of the present invention includes the steps of: preparing a separation membrane composite having a first end face and a second end face located apart from each other in a predetermined direction, and a side surface located between the first end face and the second end face; inserting the separation membrane composite into a cylindrical portion such that the first end face and the second end face of the separation membrane composite are exposed; attaching a first retaining plate to the cylindrical portion such that it faces the peripheral edge of the first end face of the separation membrane composite, and sandwiching a first sealing member between the peripheral edge of the first end face of the separation membrane composite and the first retaining plate; the separation membrane composite comprises a support and a separation membrane. The support has a porous structure. The support has a through-hole. The through-hole extends from the first end face to the second end face of the separation membrane composite. The separation membrane is provided on the support.

[0006] According to embodiments of the present invention, a separation module and separation device can be realized that can stably seal the space between the separation membrane composite and the outer casing member, thereby suppressing fluid leakage.

[0007] Figure 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a separation module according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the separation module of Figure 1. Figure 3 is a perspective view of the separation membrane composite comprising the separation module of Figure 1. Figure 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of the separation membrane composite of Figure 3. Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first retaining plate and a first sealing member comprising a separation module according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first retaining plate and a first sealing member comprising a separation module according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 7 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a first retaining plate and a first sealing member comprising a separation module according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 8 is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of a separation module according to yet another embodiment of the present invention.

[0008] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Furthermore, in order to clarify the explanation, the drawings may schematically represent the width, thickness, shape, etc., of each part compared to the embodiments; however, these are merely examples and do not limit the interpretation of the present invention.

[0009] A. Diagram 1 of the separation module is a schematic cross-sectional view of a separation module according to one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of the separation module of Figure 1. As shown in Figure 1, in one embodiment, the separation module 100 comprises a separation membrane composite 1, an exterior member 2, and a first sealing member 3. The separation membrane composite 1 typically has a columnar shape extending in a predetermined direction. The separation membrane composite 1 has a first end face E1, a second end face E2, and a side surface S. The first end face E1 and the second end face E2 are end faces in the axial direction of the separation membrane composite 1 and are located apart from each other in a predetermined direction. The side surface S is located between the first end face E1 and the second end face E2. The separation membrane composite 1 comprises a support 11 having a porous structure and a separation membrane 12. The support 11 has a through-hole 11a. The through-hole 11a extends from the first end face E1 to the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1. The separation membrane 12 is provided on the support 11. The outer casing member 2 is attached to the separation membrane composite 1. The outer casing member 2 exposes the first end face E1 and the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1. The outer casing member 2 comprises a first retaining plate 21 and a cylindrical portion 22. The first retaining plate 21 faces the peripheral edge of the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1. The cylindrical portion 22 supports the first retaining plate 21. The cylindrical portion 22 faces the side surface S of the separation membrane composite 1. More specifically, the cylindrical portion 22 is positioned at a distance from the side surface S of the separation membrane composite 1 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the separation membrane composite 1. The first sealing member 3 seals the space between the separation membrane composite 1 and the outer casing member 2. The first sealing member 3 is sandwiched between the peripheral edge of the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1 and the first retaining plate 21. The inventors discovered that fluid leakage occurring in a configuration in which a sealing member is provided between the side surface of the separation membrane composite and the outer casing member is due to variations in the dimensions of the separation membrane composite in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the outer dimensions) relative to the set value. Therefore, the inventors conceived the idea that the sealing performance in the separation module could be easily improved by utilizing the end face of the separation membrane composite in the axial direction, and thus completed the present invention.More specifically, the outer casing member is provided with a first retaining plate facing the peripheral edge of the first end face of the separation membrane composite, and the first sealing member is sandwiched between the peripheral edge of the first end face of the separation membrane composite and the first retaining plate. This allows for a more stable seal between the separation membrane composite and the outer casing member compared to the case where the first sealing member is provided between the side surface of the separation membrane composite and the outer casing member. As a result, even if the separation module separates the desired target component from a mixture under conditions where the intermembrane pressure differential is relatively large (e.g., 0.5 MPa or more), fluid leakage in the separation module can be sufficiently suppressed. Furthermore, with this configuration, there is no need to prepare first sealing members and / or peripheral members of different sizes to match the external dimensions of the separation membrane composite, thus reducing the manufacturing cost of the separation module.

[0010] In one embodiment, the separation module 100 further comprises a second retaining plate 24 and a second sealing member 4. The second retaining plate 24 is provided on the exterior member 2. Typically, the second retaining plate 24 is located on the opposite side of the separation membrane composite 1 from the first retaining plate 21. The second retaining plate 24 faces the peripheral edge of the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1. The second retaining plate 24 is supported by the cylindrical portion 22. The second sealing member 4 is sandwiched between the peripheral edge of the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1 and the second retaining plate 24. With this configuration, fluid leakage in the separation module can be suppressed more stably.

[0011] In one embodiment, the exterior member 2 further comprises a first adjustment plate 23. The first adjustment plate 23 is located between the first retaining plate 21 and the cylindrical portion 22. With this configuration, the relative position of the first retaining plate with respect to the first end face of the separation membrane composite can be appropriately adjusted by adjusting the thickness of the first adjustment plate according to the axial dimensions of the separation membrane composite. Therefore, leakage of fluid from between the first end face of the separation membrane composite and the first retaining plate can be stably suppressed.

[0012] In the illustrated example, the exterior member 2 further includes a second adjustment plate 25. Typically, the second adjustment plate 25 is located on the opposite side of the cylindrical portion 22 from the first adjustment plate 23. The second adjustment plate 25 is located between the second retaining plate 24 and the cylindrical portion 22. With this configuration, the relative position of the second retaining plate with respect to the second end face of the separation membrane composite can be appropriately adjusted by adjusting the thickness of the second adjustment plate according to the axial dimensions of the separation membrane composite. Therefore, leakage of fluid from between the second end face of the separation membrane composite and the second retaining plate can be suppressed more stably. Note that the exterior member 2 may also include only one of the first adjustment plate 23 and the second adjustment plate 25.

[0013] The first sealing member 3 has any suitable configuration capable of sealing the space between the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1 and the first retaining plate 21. In one embodiment, the first sealing member 3 comprises a plate-like portion 33 and a first bulge portion 31. The plate-like portion 33 of the first sealing member 3 extends tangentially to the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1. The first bulge portion 31 of the first sealing member 3 bulges out from the plate-like portion 33 toward the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1. In the illustrated example, the first bulge portion 31 is in contact with the peripheral edge of the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1. With such a configuration, leakage of fluid from between the first end face of the separation membrane composite and the first retaining plate can be suppressed more stably.

[0014] In the illustrated example, the first sealing member 3 further comprises a second bulge 32. The second bulge 32 of the first sealing member 3 is located on the opposite side of the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1 from the plate-like portion 33. The second bulge 32 bulges outwards from the plate-like portion 33 toward the first retaining plate 21. In the illustrated example, the second bulge 32 is in contact with the first retaining plate 21. With this configuration, leakage of fluid from between the first end face of the separation membrane composite and the first retaining plate can be suppressed more reliably.

[0015] The first sealing member 3 may further include a body portion 34. The body portion 34 of the first sealing member 3 is located between the side surface S of the separation membrane composite 1 and the cylindrical portion 22 of the outer casing member 2. The body portion 34 is typically connected to the plate-shaped portion 33. With this configuration, in the manufacturing method of the separation module described later, the first sealing member can be smoothly attached to the first end face of the separation membrane composite, thereby improving the manufacturing efficiency of the separation module.

[0016] The second sealing member 4 has any suitable configuration that can seal the space between the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1 and the second retaining plate 24. Typically, the second sealing member 4 has the same configuration as the first sealing member 3. Therefore, a detailed explanation of the second sealing member 4 will be omitted as appropriate. Note that each member of the first sealing member 3 and each member of the second sealing member 4 are distinguished by reference numerals. In the illustrated example, the second sealing member 4 comprises a plate-like portion 43, a first bulge portion 41, and a second bulge portion 42. The plate-like portion 43 of the second sealing member 4 extends in the tangential direction to the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1. The first bulge portion 41 of the second sealing member 4 bulges out from the plate-like portion 33 toward the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1. In the illustrated example, the first bulge portion 41 is in contact with the peripheral end of the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1. The second bulge 42 of the second sealing member 4 is located on the opposite side of the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1 from the plate-like portion 43. The second bulge 42 bulges outwards from the plate-like portion 43 toward the second retaining plate 24. In the illustrated example, the second bulge 42 is in contact with the second retaining plate 24. With this configuration, leakage of fluid from between the second end face of the separation membrane composite and the second retaining plate can be suppressed more reliably.

[0017] The second sealing member 4 may further include a body portion 44. The body portion 44 of the second sealing member 4 is typically connected to a plate-shaped portion 43. With this configuration, in the manufacturing method of the separation module described later, the second sealing member can be smoothly attached to the end of the separation membrane composite, thereby improving the manufacturing efficiency of the separation module.

[0018] B. Details of the Separation Module Next, with reference to Figures 1 and 2, the details of a separation module according to one embodiment will be described. In one embodiment, the separation module 100 comprises the separation membrane composite 1 described above, the exterior member 2 described above, the first sealing member 3 described above, and the second sealing member 4 described above.

[0019] B-1. Separation membrane complex The separation membrane complex 1 comprises a support 11 and a separation membrane 12, as described above.

[0020] B-1-1. Support The support 11 typically has a columnar shape (overall shape) with one or more through-holes. Examples of the overall shape of the support 11 include a cylindrical shape with a circular base, an elliptical columnar shape with an elliptical base, a prismatic columnar shape with a polygonal base, and a columnar shape with an irregular base. The outer diameter and length of the support 11 can be appropriately set depending on the purpose.

[0021] As shown in Figure 3, in one embodiment, the support 11 has a monolithic shape having a plurality of through-holes 11a. The monolithic shape refers to a columnar shape having a plurality of through-holes, and is a concept that includes a honeycomb shape in which each of the multiple through-holes is defined by a cell.

[0022] As shown in Figure 1, each of the multiple through-holes 11a extends in the longitudinal direction (axial direction) of the support 11 from the first end face E1 (inlet end face) to the second end face E2 (outlet end face) of the separation membrane composite 1 (see Figure 1). The axial direction of the support 11 and the direction in which the through-holes 11a extend are typically substantially parallel.

[0023] Each of the multiple through-holes 11a has any suitable shape in a cross-section perpendicular to the axial direction of the support 11. Examples of cross-sectional shapes of the through-holes 11a include triangles, quadrilaterals, pentagons, polygons with hexagons or more, circles, and ellipses. Among these cross-sectional shapes of the through-holes 11a, circular and elliptical shapes are preferred, and circular shapes are more preferred.

[0024] The cross-sectional shape and size of the through-holes 11a may all be the same, or at least some may differ. If the cross-sectional shape of the through-hole 11a is circular, the inner diameter of the through-hole 11a is, for example, 1 mm to 20 mm. The distance between the centers of adjacent through-holes 11a is, for example, 1.1 mm to 50 mm. The distance between the centers of adjacent through-holes is measured, for example, as the length of the line segment connecting the centers of adjacent through-holes in the cross-section of the support.

[0025] The support 11 typically has a porous structure that allows fluid to permeate. More specifically, the support 11 comprises a three-dimensional, continuous mesh-like framework and interconnected pores partitioned by the framework. The framework of the support 11 is made of any suitable material. Typical materials for the support include ceramic materials. Examples of ceramic materials include alumina, silica, mullite, zirconia, titania, yttria, silicon nitride, silicon carbide, and cordierite. Ceramic materials can be used alone or in combination. Among ceramic materials, alumina is preferred.

[0026] The support 11 may contain any suitable inorganic binder. Examples of inorganic binders include easily sinterable alumina, glass frit, clay minerals, and easily sinterable cordierite. The inorganic binders can be used alone or in combination.

[0027] The support 11 may consist of a single layer or may have a multilayer structure in which multiple layers are stacked. As shown in Figure 4, in one embodiment, the support 11 has a multilayer structure having multiple layers with different pore sizes. In this case, it is preferable that the pore size is smaller closer to the separation membrane 12.

[0028] The average pore size of the support 11 is, for example, 0.01 μm to 70 μm, preferably 0.05 μm to 25 μm. The average pore size of the support 11 on the separation membrane 12 side is 0.01 μm to 1 μm, preferably 0.05 μm to 0.5 μm. Regarding the distribution of pore size throughout the support 11, including the surface and interior, D5 is, for example, 0.01 μm to 50 μm, D50 is, for example, 0.05 μm to 70 μm, and D95 ​​is, for example, 0.1 μm to 2000 μm. The porosity of the support 11 on the separation membrane 12 side is, for example, 15% to 70%. The average pore size of the support is measured, for example, by a mercury porosimeter, palm porometer, or nanopalm porometer.

[0029] Such a support 11 is prepared by any suitable method. In one embodiment, first, the raw material powder containing the ceramic material described above is molded into a desired shape by any suitable molding method (e.g., vacuum extrusion). This typically yields an unfired molded body having a monolithic shape. Next, the unfired molded body is fired by any suitable method. The firing temperature is, for example, 900°C to 1800°C, preferably 1200°C to 1500°C. The firing time is, for example, 1 hour to 100 hours.

[0030] Typically, sealing portions are provided at both ends of the support 11 in the longitudinal direction (axial direction). In other words, the separation membrane composite 1 includes sealing portions in addition to the support 11 and the separation membrane 12. The sealing portions are attached to both ends of the support 11 in the longitudinal direction and are members that cover and seal the longitudinal end faces of the support 11 and the outer peripheral surfaces near those end faces. The sealing portions suppress the inflow and outflow of fluid from these end faces of the support 11. The sealing portions are, for example, plate-shaped members made of glass or resin. The material and shape of the sealing portions may be changed as appropriate. Since the sealing portions are provided with multiple openings that overlap with the multiple through-holes 11a of the support 11, the longitudinal ends of each through-hole 11a of the support 11 are not covered by the sealing portions. Therefore, it is possible for fluid to flow in and out of the through-holes 11a from both ends. This prepares a support 11 having a monolithic shape.

[0031] B-1-2. Separation Membrane As shown in FIG. 1, the separation membrane 12 is typically provided on the surface of the support 11. In one embodiment, the separation membrane 12 is provided on the inner surface of each of the plurality of through-holes 11a in the support 11. In the illustrated example, a flow path 15 is formed inside the through-hole 11a. More specifically, in a cross-section obtained by cutting the support 11 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction, a flow path 15 is formed in a portion (typically the central portion) of the through-hole 11a where the separation membrane 12 is not formed. In other words, the separation membrane 12 faces the flow path 15. The separation membrane 12 may be formed over the entire inner surface of the through-hole 11a (i.e., so as to surround the flow path 15) or may be formed on a part of the inner surface of the through-hole 11a, as in the illustrated example. When the separation membrane is formed so as to surround the flow path, the fluid passing through the flow path can be efficiently brought into contact with the separation membrane, and the separation efficiency of the desired component can be improved.

[0032] The separation membrane 12 typically has micropores. The separation membrane 12 separates a specific component from a mixture by permeation, for example, by utilizing differences in molecular size and / or differences in adsorptivity.

[0033] The separation membrane 12 is composed of any suitable material. Examples of the material of the separation membrane 12 include zeolite, alumina, titania, silica, zirconia, carbon, metal-organic frameworks (MOF), and organic polymers such as silicone and polyimide. The materials of the separation membrane 12 can be used alone or in combination.

[0034] The average pore diameter of the separation membrane 12 can be arbitrarily and appropriately selected according to the separation target. The average pore diameter of the separation membrane 12 is, for example, 0.2 nm to 1 nm, preferably 0.3 nm to 0.8 nm. By setting the average pore diameter of the separation membrane 12 within such a range, the selectivity can be increased. The average pore diameter of the separation membrane 12 is smaller than the average pore diameter of the support 11.

[0035] In one embodiment, the separation membrane 12 is a zeolite membrane 12a. The zeolite membrane 12a is prepared by forming zeolite in a film shape on the surface of the support 11. The zeolite membrane 12a may contain a single zeolite or may contain two or more zeolites having different structures and / or compositions.

[0036] When the separation membrane 12 is the zeolite membrane 12a, taking the maximum ring number of the zeolite constituting the zeolite membrane 12a as n, the arithmetic mean of the short diameter and the long diameter of the n-member ring pores is defined as the average pore diameter. The n-member ring pores are pores in which the number of oxygen atoms forming a cyclic structure by bonding with T atoms (to be described later) is n. When there are a plurality of n-member ring pores with the same n, the arithmetic mean of the short diameter and the long diameter of all the n-member ring pores is defined as the average pore diameter of the zeolite. The average pore diameter of the zeolite membrane is determined by the framework structure of the zeolite. For example, it can be obtained from the values disclosed in the "Database of Zeolite Structures" [online] of the International Zeolite Association, Internet <URL: http: / / www.iza-structure.org / databases / >.

[0037] Examples of the zeolite constituting the zeolite membrane 12a include zeolites in which the atom (T atom) located at the center of the oxygen tetrahedron (TO ４ ) is only Si or consists of Si and Al; AlPO-type zeolites in which the T atom consists of Al and P; SAPO-type zeolites in which the T atom consists of Si, Al, and P; MAPSO-type zeolites in which the T atom consists of magnesium (Mg), Si, Al, and P; and ZnAPSO-type zeolites in which the T atom consists of zinc (Zn), Si, Al, and P. A part of the T atoms may be substituted with other elements.

[0038] The maximum ring number of the zeolite is, for example, 12 or less, preferably 10 or less, more preferably 8 or less. On the other hand, the lower limit of the maximum ring number of the zeolite is typically 6.

[0039] Examples of the zeolite include zeolites of AEI type, AEN type, AFN type, AFV type, AFX type, BEA type, CHA type, DDR type, ERI type, ETL type, FAU type (X type, Y type), GIS type, LEV type, LTA type, MEL type, MFI type, MOR type, PAU type, RHO type, SAT type, and SOD type. When the zeolite is an 8-member ring zeolite, examples thereof include zeolites of AEI type, AFN type, AFV type, AFX type, CHA type, DDR type, ERI type, ETL type, GIS type, IHW type, LEV type, LTA type, LTJ type, RHO type, SAT type, etc.

[0040] Zeolite membrane 12a contains SiO ２ and Al ２ O ３ and may further contain an alkali metal. Examples of the alkali metal include sodium (Na) and potassium (K).

[0041] The molar ratio of SiO ２ / Al ２ O ３ in zeolite membrane 12a is, for example, 1 or more and 100,000 or less, preferably 1 or more and 1,000 or less. When the molar ratio of SiO ２ / Al ２ O ３ in zeolite membrane 12a is within such a range, breakage of zeolite membrane 12a can be stably suppressed. The molar ratio of SiO ２ / Al ２ O ３ is measured, for example, by scanning electron microscope - energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDX; X-ray acceleration voltage 10 kV).

[0042] The thickness of separation membrane 12 is, for example, 0.05 μm to 30 μm, preferably 0.1 μm to 20 μm, and more preferably 0.5 μm to 10 μm. When the thickness of separation membrane 12 is within such a range, selectivity and permeation rate can be adjusted well in balance.

[0043] The surface roughness (Ra) of the separation membrane 12 is, for example, 5 μm or less, preferably 2 μm or less, more preferably 1 μm or less, and even more preferably 0.5 μm or less. The surface roughness (Ra) is measured, for example, in accordance with JIS B 0601.

[0044] The separation membrane 12 is formed by any appropriate method depending on the material constituting the membrane. For example, a zeolite membrane 12a is obtained by coating a zeolite as a seed crystal onto a support 11, immersing the support 11 with the attached seed crystal in a raw material solution, and growing the zeolite using the seed crystal as a nucleus by hydrothermal synthesis. The raw material solution includes, for example, a silica source, an alumina source, organic matter, an alkali source, and water. The heating temperature in hydrothermal synthesis is, for example, 60°C to 200°C. The heating time is, for example, 1 hour to 240 hours.

[0045] Furthermore, if the separation membrane 12 is not a zeolite membrane, it can be formed by known methods. For example, a separation membrane can be formed using a raw material slurry obtained by mixing an organic binder, a ceramic raw material, and a solvent.

[0046] Examples of documents describing such a separation membrane composite 1 include: Japanese Patent Publication No. 5599777, Japanese Patent Publication No. 5624542, Japanese Patent Publication No. 5662937, Japanese Patent Publication No. 5734196, Japanese Patent Publication No. 5695576, Japanese Patent Publication No. 5428014, Japanese Patent Publication No. 5897458, Japanese Patent Publication No. 5467909, Japanese Patent Publication No. 5671009, Japanese Patent Publication No. 5937569, Japanese Patent Publication No. 6043279, Japanese Patent Publication No. 6010113, Japanese Patent Publication No. 6008943, Japanese Patent Publication No. 6046697, Japanese Patent Publication No. 6238899, Japanese Patent Publication No. 6285418, and Japanese Patent Publication No. 6609547. Examples include Patent Publication No. 6577866, Patent Publication No. 6490665, Patent Publication No. 6636932, Patent Publication No. 6559146, Patent Publication No. 6767876, Patent Publication No. 6660304, Patent Publication No. 6622714, Patent Publication No. 6636948, Patent Publication No. 6702884, Patent Publication No. 6622226, Patent Publication No. 6670764, Patent Publication No. 6670825, Patent Publication No. 6634437, Patent Publication No. 6479534, Patent Publication No. 6421139, Patent Publication No. 6799410, Patent Publication No. 6609693, and Patent Publication No. 6588622. These publications are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0047] B-2. Exterior Member In one embodiment, the exterior member 2 comprises the cylindrical portion 22 described above, the first retaining plate 21 described above, the second retaining plate 24 described above, the first adjustment plate 23 described above, and the second adjustment plate 25 described above. The exterior member 2 is configured to be substantially impermeable to fluid except at the opening. The exterior member 2 is made of any suitable metal. Examples of metals that make up the exterior member 2 include stainless steel and carbon steel. Each member of the exterior member 2 may be made of the same metal or different metals.

[0048] B-2-1. The cylindrical portion 22 has any suitable configuration capable of accommodating the separation membrane complex 1. When the separation membrane complex 1 is accommodating the cylindrical portion 22, it is positioned at a distance from the side surface S of the separation membrane complex 1 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction of the separation membrane complex 1. Typically, the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 22 is larger than the outer diameter of the separation membrane complex 1.

[0049] The cylindrical portion 22 may be composed of a single member or of multiple members. In one embodiment, the cylindrical portion 22 is composed of multiple members. In the illustrated example, the cylindrical portion 22 comprises a cylindrical body 220, a first end member 221, and a second end member 222. When the cylindrical portion is composed of multiple members, the separation module can be manufactured smoothly in the separation module manufacturing method described later.

[0050] The cylindrical body 220 typically has a cylindrical shape that extends in the same direction as the separation membrane composite 1. The shape of the cylindrical body 220 is arbitrarily and appropriately selected according to the shape of the support 11. Examples of the cylindrical body 220 include a cylindrical shape with a circular bottom, an elliptical cylindrical shape with an elliptical bottom, a rectangular cylindrical shape with a polygonal bottom, and a cylindrical shape with an irregular bottom. In the illustrated example, the cylindrical body 220 has a cylindrical shape.

[0051] As shown in Figure 2, flange portions 223 may be provided at each end of the cylindrical body 220 in the axial direction. The flange portions 223 extend from the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical body 220 in a direction perpendicular to the axial direction. In the illustrated example, the flange portions 223 have an annular plate shape.

[0052] As shown in Figure 1, the first end member 221 is typically positioned adjacent to one end of the cylindrical body 220 in the axial direction. The first end member 221 has any suitable cylindrical shape. For example, the shape of the first end member 221 may be the same as that of the cylindrical body 220. In the illustrated example, the first end member 221 has a cylindrical shape. Alternatively, the first end member 221 may have an annular plate shape (flange shape) (see Figure 8).

[0053] In one embodiment, the first end member 221 is fixed to one axial end of the cylindrical body 220. In the illustrated example, the first end member 221 is fixed to the flange portion 223 of the cylindrical body 22 by fasteners 229 (typically screws). Alternatively, as shown in Figure 8, the first end member 221 may be fixed to the cylindrical body 220 by welding or the like without using fasteners 229. In that case, the flange portion 223 of the cylindrical body 22 may be omitted. The cylindrical body 22 may also consist of the first end member 221 and the cylindrical body 220 as a single unit.

[0054] As shown in Figure 1, the second end member 222 is typically located on the opposite side of the cylindrical body 220 from the first end member 221, and is positioned adjacent to the other axial end of the cylindrical body 220. The configuration of the second end member 222 will be described in the same way as the first end member 221. Therefore, a detailed description of the second end member 222 will be omitted as appropriate. In one embodiment, the second end member 222 is fixed to the other axial end of the cylindrical body 220. In the illustrated example, the second end member 222 is fixed to the flange portion 223 of the cylindrical body 22 by fasteners 229 (typically screws). Alternatively, the second end member 222 may be fixed to the cylindrical body 220 by welding or the like without using fasteners 229. In that case, the flange portion 223 of the cylindrical body 22 may be omitted. Note that the cylindrical body 22 may consist of the second end member 222 and the cylindrical body 220 as an integral part.

[0055] In one embodiment, the cylindrical portion 22 has an opening 22a. Typically, the opening 22a passes through the space between the side surface S of the separation membrane composite 1 and the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 22, and the space in contact with the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 22. In the illustrated example, the opening 22a is provided in the cylindrical portion body 220. The opening 22a penetrates the cylindrical portion body 220 radially. The number of openings 22a is not particularly limited. There may be one opening 22a or multiple openings 22a. In the illustrated example, the cylindrical portion 22 has multiple openings 22a. Typically, the multiple openings 22a are arranged at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction of the cylindrical portion 22 (see Figure 2).

[0056] B-2-2. First and Second Retaining Plates The first retaining plate 21 is typically fixed to one axial end of the cylindrical portion 22. When the first retaining plate 21 is fixed to the cylindrical portion 22, at least a portion of the first retaining plate 21 faces the peripheral edge of the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1 housed in the cylindrical portion 22. In one embodiment, the first retaining plate 21 exposes the central portion of the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1. Note that it is sufficient for the first retaining plate 21 to expose at least a portion of the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1. In the illustrated example, the first retaining plate 21 is located on the opposite side of the cylindrical portion body 220 from the first end member 221. The first retaining plate 21 is fixed to the first end member 221 by fasteners 229 (typically screws). Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, the first retaining plate 21 may be fixed to the first end member 221 by a bolt and nut that pass through the first end member 221. In this case, the fastener 229 will be a bolt and nut.

[0057] As shown in Figure 2, the first retaining plate 21 has any suitable ring shape when viewed from the thickness direction. Examples of the shape of the first retaining plate 21 include an annular shape and a square annular shape. In the illustrated example, the first retaining plate 21 has an annular shape. In one embodiment, the inner diameter of the first retaining plate 21 is smaller than the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 22 and smaller than the outer diameter of the separation membrane composite 1.

[0058] The thickness of the first retaining plate 21 is, for example, 1 mm to 50 mm, preferably 3 mm to 30 mm. When the thickness of the first retaining plate is within this range, the sealing member can be stably sandwiched between the retaining plate and the end face of the separation membrane composite.

[0059] The second retaining plate 24 is fixed to the other axial end of the cylindrical portion 22. When the second retaining plate 24 is fixed to the cylindrical portion 22, at least a portion of the second retaining plate 24 faces the peripheral edge of the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1 housed in the cylindrical portion 22. In one embodiment, the second retaining plate 24 exposes the central portion of the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1. In one embodiment, the second retaining plate 24 is located on the opposite side of the cylindrical portion body 220 from the second end member 222. In the illustrated example, the second retaining plate 24 is fixed to the second end member 222 by fasteners 229 (typically screws). The configuration of the second retaining plate 24 will be described in the same way as the first retaining plate 21. Therefore, a detailed description of the second retaining plate 24 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0060] B-2-3. First and Second Adjustment Plates The first adjustment plate 23 is typically provided between the first retaining plate 21 and one end of the cylindrical portion 22 in the axial direction. In the illustrated example, the first adjustment plate 23 is sandwiched between the first retaining plate 21 and the first end member 221.

[0061] As shown in Figure 2, the first adjustment plate 23 has an arbitrary appropriate ring shape when viewed from the thickness direction. For example, the shape of the first adjustment plate 23 may be similar to that of the first retaining plate 21. In the illustrated example, the first adjustment plate 23 has an annular shape. In one embodiment, the inner diameter of the first adjustment plate 23 is larger than the inner diameter of the first retaining plate 21. The inner diameter of the first adjustment plate 23 is substantially the same as the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 22. Therefore, even if the exterior member is equipped with the first adjustment plate, it is possible to prevent the first adjustment plate from interfering with the arrangement of the first sealing member.

[0062] The thickness of the first adjustment plate 23 is, for example, 1 mm to 20 mm, preferably 1 mm to 10 mm. When the thickness of the first adjustment plate is within this range, it can stably absorb axial dimensional variations of the separation membrane composite.

[0063] As shown in Figure 1, in one embodiment, a third sealing member 227 is provided between the first adjustment plate 23 and the first retaining plate 21, and / or between the first adjustment plate 23 and the cylindrical portion 22. This can suppress fluid leakage from the vicinity of the first adjustment plate. The third sealing member 227 is made of any suitable rubber material. In the illustrated example, the third sealing member 227 is an O-ring. In the illustrated example, the third sealing member 227 provided between the first adjustment plate 23 and the first retaining plate 21 is positioned in a groove formed in the first retaining plate 21. The third sealing member 227 provided between the first adjustment plate 23 and the cylindrical portion 22 is positioned in a groove formed in one axial end of the cylindrical portion 22 (specifically, the first end member 221).

[0064] The second adjustment plate 25 is typically provided between the second retaining plate 24 and the other end of the cylindrical portion 22 in the axial direction. In the illustrated example, the second adjustment plate 25 is sandwiched between the second retaining plate 24 and the second end member 222. The configuration of the second adjustment plate 25 will be described in the same way as the first adjustment plate 23. Therefore, a detailed explanation of the second adjustment plate 25 will be omitted as appropriate.

[0065] In one embodiment, a fourth sealing member 228 is provided between the second adjustment plate 25 and the second retaining plate 24, and / or between the second adjustment plate 25 and the cylindrical portion 22. This prevents fluid leakage from the vicinity of the second adjustment plate. The configuration of the fourth sealing member 228 will be described in the same manner as the third sealing member 227. Therefore, a detailed description of the fourth sealing member 228 will be omitted as appropriate. In the illustrated example, the fourth sealing member 228 provided between the second adjustment plate 25 and the second retaining plate 24 is positioned in a groove formed in the second retaining plate 24. The fourth sealing member 228 provided between the second adjustment plate 25 and the cylindrical portion 22 is positioned in a groove formed in the other axial end of the cylindrical portion 22 (specifically, the second end member 222).

[0066] B-3. ​​First and Second Seal Members Each of the first seal member 3 and the second seal member 4 has any suitable configuration that is substantially impermeable to fluid. Each of the first seal member 3 and the second seal member 4 typically contacts a portion of the support 11 other than the through-hole 11a via the sealing portion.

[0067] In one embodiment, the first sealing member 3 integrally includes the plate-like portion 33, the first bulge portion 31, the second bulge portion 32, and the body portion 34. As shown in Figure 2, the plate-like portion 33 has any suitable ring shape when viewed from the thickness direction. Examples of the shape of the plate-like portion 33 include an annular shape and a square annular shape. In the illustrated example, the plate-like portion 33 has an annular shape. In one embodiment, the inner diameter of the plate-like portion 33 is smaller than the outer diameter of the separation membrane composite 1. In the illustrated example, the inner diameter of the plate-like portion 33 is approximately the same as the inner diameter of the first retaining plate 21. The first sealing member 3 only needs to expose at least a part of the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1. Also, typically, the outer diameter of the plate-like portion 33 is smaller than the inner diameter of the cylindrical portion 22 and larger than the outer diameter of the separation membrane composite 1.

[0068] As shown in Figure 1, the first bulge 31 is in contact with the circumferential end of the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1. The second bulge 32 is in contact with the first retaining plate 21. In a cross-section obtained by cutting the first sealing member 3 in the thickness direction of the plate-like portion 33, the first bulge 31 and the second bulge 32 each typically have an arc shape or an elliptical arc shape. The body portion 34 has a cylindrical shape that extends in the axial direction of the separation membrane composite 1. The thickness of the body portion 34 may be constant or may vary in parts. In the illustrated example, the thickness of the body portion 34 decreases as it moves away from the plate-like portion 33. By having such a shape, the first sealing member 3 can be smoothly attached to the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1, and the manufacturing efficiency of the separation module 100 can be improved. The body portion 34 is typically located between the side surface S of the separation membrane composite 1 and the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 22.

[0069] The first sealing member 3 is made of any suitable rubber material. Examples of rubber materials include natural rubber, styrene-butadiene rubber, butadiene rubber, chloroprene rubber, nitrile rubber, acrylic rubber, butyl rubber, ethylene propylene rubber, urethane rubber, silicone rubber, and fluororubber, with fluororubber being preferred. The storage modulus of the first sealing member 3 at 25°C is, for example, 0.5 MPa to 150 MPa, preferably 1 MPa to 100 MPa. The storage modulus is measured, for example, using a flat punch indenter in a nanoindentation apparatus at a frequency of 100 Hz.

[0070] The second sealing member 4 is described in the same manner as the first sealing member 3, as described above. The second sealing member 4 integrally comprises a plate-shaped portion 43, a first bulge portion 41, a second bulge portion 42, and a body portion 44. The shape of the second sealing member 4 may be the same as that of the first sealing member 3, or at least a part of it may be different. The second sealing member 4 may be made of the same rubber material as the first sealing member 3, or it may be made of a different rubber material than the first sealing member 3.

[0071] In the illustrated example, the first sealing member 3, the second sealing member 4, the side surface S of the separation membrane composite 1, and the inner surface of the cylindrical portion 22 define a permeate channel 8. The first component (described later) that has permeated through the separation membrane 12 can flow into the permeate channel 8.

[0072] C. Modified Separation Module As shown in Figure 1, in the above embodiment, the second bulge 32 of the first sealing member 3 is in contact with the plane of the first retaining plate 21. The contact structure between the first sealing member 3 and the first retaining plate 21 is not limited to this.

[0073] As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the first retaining plate 21 may have a notch 211 corresponding to the second bulge 32. With this configuration, the ease of assembly of the first sealing member can be improved, and the contact area between the first sealing member and the first retaining plate can be increased. As a result, fluid leakage from the separation module can be stably suppressed. The shape of the notch 211 is not particularly limited. In the cross-section of the first retaining plate 21, it may be substantially L-shaped as shown in Figure 5, or substantially C-shaped as shown in Figure 6.

[0074] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 7, the first retaining plate 21 may comprise a main body portion 212 and a bulging portion 213. The main body portion 212 extends tangentially to the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1. The bulging portion 213 bulges out from the main body portion 212 toward the first sealing member 3. This also allows for stable suppression of fluid leakage from the separation module. In the illustrated example, the first sealing member 3 does not have a second bulging portion 32. Therefore, the bulging portion 213 of the first retaining plate 21 contacts the plate-like portion 33 of the first sealing member 3. The first end face E1 and / or the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1 may be provided with a protective material that allows fluid to pass through. In the operation method described later, if the mixture (fluid) to be separated can flow into the flow path 15 and out of the flow path 15, the first end face E1 and the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1 are considered exposed.

[0075] D. Method for Manufacturing a Separation Module Next, a method for manufacturing a separation module according to one embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. In one embodiment, the method for manufacturing the separation module 100 includes a preparation step of preparing a separation membrane composite 1, an insertion step of inserting the separation membrane composite 1 into a cylindrical portion 22, and a first mounting step of attaching a first retaining plate 21 to the cylindrical portion 22 and sandwiching a first sealing member 3 between the peripheral edge of the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite and the first retaining plate 21. Preferably, the method for manufacturing the separation module 100 further includes a second mounting step of attaching a second retaining plate 24 to the cylindrical portion 22 and sandwiching a second sealing member 4 between the peripheral edge of the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite and the second retaining plate 24.

[0076] D-1. Preparation and Insertion Process In the manufacturing method of the separation module 100, first, the separation membrane composite 1 described above is prepared, and the separation membrane composite 1 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 22 described above so that the first end face E1 and the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1 are exposed. At this time, the axial direction of the separation membrane composite 1 and the axial direction of the cylindrical portion 22 are substantially parallel. Insertion of the separation membrane composite 1 into the cylindrical portion 22 may be performed by fixing the cylindrical portion 22, or by fixing the separation membrane composite 1. Here, "exposed first end face E1 and second end face E2" means that at least a part of each of the first end face E1 and the second end face E2 is exposed when the manufacturing of the separation membrane module 100 is completed, and this also includes cases where the first end face E1 or the second end face E2 is temporarily covered by a protective material during the manufacturing process.

[0077] In one embodiment, during the insertion process, the separation membrane composite 1 is inserted into the cylindrical body 220 of the cylindrical portion 22. Then, the first end member 221 is fixed to one axial end of the cylindrical body 220 with a fastener 229. The second end member 222 is then fixed to the other axial end of the cylindrical body 220 with a fastener 229. In another embodiment, during the insertion process, the separation membrane composite 1 is inserted into the second end member 222 of the cylindrical portion 22. Subsequently, the cylindrical body 220 is inserted into the separation membrane composite 1 and fixed to the second end member 222 with a fastener 229. Then, the first end member 221 is fixed to the other axial end of the cylindrical body 220 to which the second end member 222 is not attached with a fastener 229. Thus, when the cylindrical portion 22 is composed of multiple members, the separation membrane composite 1 may be inserted into the integrated cylindrical portion 22, or into each individual member of the cylindrical portion 22. Alternatively, the separation membrane composite 1 may be inserted into the cylindrical portion 22 (or a part of the cylindrical portion 22) with the second sealing member 4 and the second retaining plate 24 attached to the cylindrical portion 22 (the second end member 222 in the illustrated example). This inserts the separation membrane composite 1 into the cylindrical portion 22.

[0078] D-2. First Installation Step Next, in the first installation step, the first sealing member 3 is first attached to the end of the separation membrane composite 1 on the side of the first end face E1. In one embodiment, the end of the separation membrane composite 1 on the side of the first end face E1 is inserted into the body portion 34 of the first sealing member 3. At this time, at least a part of the first sealing member 3 (the first bulge portion 31 in the illustrated example) comes into contact with the peripheral end of the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1.

[0079] Next, if necessary, the first adjustment plate 23 is placed on one axial end of the cylindrical portion 22, and then the first retaining plate 21 is attached to the axial end of the cylindrical portion 22. In the illustrated example, the first adjustment plate 23 is placed on the first end member 221, and then the first retaining plate 21 is placed on the opposite side of the first end member 221 from the first adjustment plate 23 and attached to the first end member 221 by fasteners 229. As a result, at least a portion of the first retaining plate 21 is positioned to face the peripheral edge of the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1, and at least a portion of the first sealing member 3 is sandwiched between the peripheral edge of the first end face E1 of the separation membrane composite 1 and the first retaining plate 21.

[0080] D-3. Second Installation Step In the second installation step, first, the second sealing member 4 is attached to the end of the separation membrane composite 1 on the side of the second end face E2. In one embodiment, the end of the separation membrane composite 1 on the side of the second end face E2 is inserted into the body portion 44 of the second sealing member 4. At this time, at least a part of the second sealing member 4 (the first bulge portion 41 in the illustrated example) comes into contact with the peripheral end of the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1.

[0081] Next, if necessary, the second adjustment plate 25 is placed on the other axial end of the cylindrical portion 22, and then the second retaining plate 24 is attached to the other axial end of the cylindrical portion 22. In the illustrated example, the second adjustment plate 25 is placed on the second end member 222, and then the second retaining plate 24 is placed on the opposite side of the second end member 222 from the second adjustment plate 25, and attached to the second end member 222 by fasteners 229. As a result, at least a portion of the second retaining plate 24 is positioned to face the peripheral edge of the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1, and at least a portion of the second sealing member 4 is sandwiched between the peripheral edge of the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1 and the second retaining plate 24. As described above, the attachment of the second sealing member 4 and the second retaining plate 24 may be performed before the separation membrane composite 1 is inserted into the cylindrical portion 22.

[0082] The separation module 100 is manufactured as described above.

[0083] E. Separation device In one embodiment, the separation module 100 described above is housed in a housing 5 and used as a separation device 101. The separation device 101 comprises the separation module 100 and the housing 5.

[0084] The housing 5 typically has an internal space capable of accommodating the separation module 100 and is configured to be substantially impermeable to fluid except at the opening. In one embodiment, with the separation module 100 housed in the housing 5, a recovery channel 9 is formed between the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical portion 22 of the exterior member 2 and the inner surface of the housing 5, through which the first component (described later) can flow in from the permeation-side channel 8 of the separation module 100. The opening 22a of the exterior member 2 connects the permeation-side channel 8 and the recovery channel 9.

[0085] In the illustrated example, the recovery channel 9 is defined by the outer circumferential surface of the cylindrical body 220, the first end member 221, the second end member 222, and the inner surface of the housing 5. The housing 5 typically has a recovery port 5a that communicates with the recovery channel 9.

[0086] In one embodiment, a housing seal member 6 is provided between the first end member 221 and the housing 5, and / or between the second end member 222 and the housing 5. This can suppress fluid leakage from the recovery channel. The housing seal member 6 is made of any suitable rubber material. In the illustrated example, the housing seal member 6 is an O-ring. In the illustrated example, the housing seal member 6 provided between the first end member 221 and the housing 5 is positioned in a recess formed by the first end member 221 and the first adjustment plate 23. The first end member 221 may have a notch corresponding to the recess. Similarly, the housing seal member 6 provided between the second end member 222 and the housing 5 is positioned in a recess formed by the second end member 222 and the second adjustment plate 25. The second end member 222 may have a notch corresponding to the recess.

[0087] In another embodiment, the housing 5 may be omitted. In that case, the housing seal member 6 can be omitted. Also, the opening 22a of the exterior member 2 functions as a collection port 5a.

[0088] F. Operating Method of Separation Device 101 Next, with reference to Figure 1, an operating method of the separation device 101 (separation module 100) according to one embodiment will be described. In the operating method of the separation device 101, typically, the mixture is supplied to the flow path 15 of the separation module 100.

[0089] The mixture may be in a gaseous state, a liquid state, or a gas-liquid two-phase fluid containing gas and liquid when supplied to the flow path 15. In one embodiment, the mixture is in a gaseous state when supplied to the flow path 15. That is, in one embodiment, the separation module 100 and the separation device 101 are a gas separation module and a gas separation device, respectively.

[0090] The mixture contains a first component (high permeability component) that can permeate the separation membrane 12, and a second component (low permeability component) that is less permeable to the separation membrane 12 than the high permeability component. The first and second components are appropriately changed depending on the application of the separation membrane 12. Examples of components included in the mixture are carbon dioxide (CO2). ２ ), C1-C8 hydrocarbons, hydrogen (H ２ ), helium (He), nitrogen (N ２ ), oxygen (O ２ ), water (H ２ O), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides, ammonia (NH ３ ), sulfur oxides, hydrogen sulfide (H ２ S), sulfur fluoride, mercury (Hg), arsine (AsH) ３ Examples include hydrogen cyanide (HCN), carbonyl sulfide (COS), organic acids, alcohols, mercaptans, esters, ethers, ketones, and aldehydes. The mixture may contain these components individually or in combination. In one embodiment, the mixture contains hydrogen as a first component (high permeability component) and hydrocarbons as a second component (low permeability component). The content of the first component is, for example, 1% to 99%, preferably 10% to 90%, when the sum of the first and second components is 100%.

[0091] The temperature of the mixture supplied to the flow path 15 is, for example, 0°C to 200°C, preferably 20°C to 100°C. The pressure of the mixture supplied to the flow path 15 is, for example, 0 MPaG (gauge pressure) to 20 MPaG (gauge pressure), preferably 0.5 MPaG (gauge pressure) to 10 MPaG (gauge pressure).

[0092] In one embodiment, the first component contained in the mixture permeates through the separation membrane 12 and the support 11 in sequence as the mixture passes through the flow path 15, and flows out from the side surface S of the separation membrane composite 1 into the permeate side flow path 8. The pressure in the permeate side flow path 8 is, for example, -0.1 MPaG (gauge pressure) to 10 MPaG (gauge pressure), preferably -0.1 MPaG (gauge pressure) to 1 MPaG (gauge pressure). The differential pressure (intermembrane differential pressure) between the pressure in the flow path 15 and the pressure in the permeate side flow path 8 is, for example, 0.1 MPa to 20 MPa, preferably 0.5 MPa to 10 MPa.

[0093] Subsequently, the first component that flows out into the permeate channel 8 flows into the recovery channel 9 through the opening 22a of the outer casing member 2 and is recovered from the recovery port 5a. A portion of the second component may also flow out into the permeate channel 8 and be recovered from the recovery port 5a. Furthermore, the second component contained in the mixture is discharged from the second end face E2 of the separation membrane composite 1 because its permeation through the separation membrane 12 is suppressed as the mixture passes through the channel 15. The fluid discharged from the second end face E2 may contain the first component that did not permeate the separation membrane composite 1. Such a separation device 101 (separation module 100) can suppress fluid leakage and smoothly separate the first and second components.

[0094] The separation module according to the embodiment of the present invention can be used for the separation of various fluids, and is particularly suitable for the separation of fluids carried out under conditions where the intermembrane pressure differential is relatively large.

[0095] 1 Separation membrane composite 11 Support 12 Separation membrane 2 Outer covering member 3 First sealing member 33 Plate-shaped portion 31 First bulging portion 32 Second bulging portion 4 Second sealing member 5 Housing 100 Separation module 101 Separation device

Claims

1. A separation module comprising: a separation membrane composite having a first end face and a second end face located apart from each other in a predetermined direction, and a side surface located between the first end face and the second end face; an outer casing member attached to the separation membrane composite such as to expose the first end face and the second end face of the separation membrane composite; and a first sealing member sealing the space between the separation membrane composite and the outer casing member, wherein the separation membrane composite comprises a support having a porous structure and a through-hole extending from the first end face to the second end face, and a separation membrane provided on the support, wherein the outer casing member comprises a first retaining plate facing the peripheral edge of the first end face of the separation membrane composite, and a cylindrical portion supporting the first retaining plate and facing the side surface of the separation membrane composite, and the first sealing member being sandwiched between the peripheral edge of the first end face of the separation membrane composite and the first retaining plate.

2. The separation module according to claim 1, wherein the first sealing member comprises a plate-like portion extending tangentially to the first end face and a first bulging portion bulging out from the plate-like portion toward the first end face of the separation membrane composite.

3. The separation module according to claim 2, wherein the first sealing member further comprises a second bulging portion that bulges out from the plate-like portion toward the first pressing plate.

4. The separation module according to claim 3, wherein the first retaining plate has a notch corresponding to the second bulge.

5. The separation module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first sealing member comprises a body portion located between the side surface of the separation membrane composite and the cylindrical portion of the outer casing member.

6. The separation module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first retaining plate comprises a main body portion extending in the tangential direction of the first end face, and a bulging portion bulging out from the main body portion toward the first sealing member.

7. The separation module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the exterior member further comprises a first adjustment plate located between the first retaining plate and the cylindrical portion.

8. The separation module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the exterior member further comprises a second retaining plate facing the peripheral edge of the second end face of the separation membrane composite, the second retaining plate being supported by the cylindrical portion, and the separation module further comprises a second sealing member sandwiched between the peripheral edge of the second end face of the separation membrane composite and the second retaining plate.

9. A separation device comprising a separation module according to any one of claims 1 to 4, and a housing that houses the separation module.

10. A method for manufacturing a separation module, comprising the steps of: preparing a separation membrane composite having a first end face and a second end face located apart from each other in a predetermined direction, and a side surface located between the first end face and the second end face; inserting the separation membrane composite into a cylindrical portion such that the first end face and the second end face of the separation membrane composite are exposed; and attaching a first retaining plate to the cylindrical portion such that it faces the peripheral edge of the first end face of the separation membrane composite, thereby sandwiching a first sealing member between the peripheral edge of the first end face of the separation membrane composite and the first retaining plate, wherein the separation membrane composite comprises a support having a porous structure and a through-hole extending from the first end face to the second end face, and a separation membrane provided on the support.

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