Separation Membrane Startup Using Asymmetric Flow-Path Humidity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing separation devices with separation membranes, such as those using zeolite membranes, are prone to breaking due to issues like bumping, sudden expansion, and thermal shock during activation and operation, which can be exacerbated by moisture-related factors.
Innovation Solution
A transient operation method involving controlled humidity and temperature management is employed, where gases with different relative humidities are supplied to separate flow paths to prevent membrane breakage, using a zeolite membrane complex with a substrate, by maintaining higher humidity in one path and lower humidity in the other to stabilize the membrane during heating.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If heating is applied to activate the separation membrane, then the membrane can fulfill its separation function, but the membrane and device are prone to breaking due to thermal shock and sudden expansion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by controlling the humidity parameter during the heating process. Specifically, it supplies water vapor to the permeate side flow path during the heating phase, maintaining higher humidity conditions that prevent thermal shock and sudden expansion of the membrane. This gradual parameter change approach allows the membrane to be activated without experiencing abrupt temperature and pressure changes that would cause breaking.
2Strength
If high humidity is supplied to both flow paths during heating, then thermal shock is reduced, but bumping and sudden expansion occur causing membrane breakage
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by creating different humidity conditions in different flow paths during the heating process. The permeate side flow path receives water vapor supply maintaining high humidity, while the feed side flow path operates under different humidity conditions. This localized quality difference prevents both thermal shock and bumping phenomena, as each side of the membrane experiences appropriate humidity control tailored to its specific functional requirements during activation.
3Device complexity
If the separation device is operated without proper humidity control, then the structure is simple, but the device and membrane are prone to breaking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces water vapor as an intermediary substance to mediate the heating process. By supplying water vapor to the permeate side flow path during heating, it acts as a buffer that prevents direct thermal shock to the membrane. This intermediary approach adds controlled complexity to the operation system but significantly improves device durability and reliability during the activation phase.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This method effectively prevents membrane breakage by managing moisture-related stress, ensuring stable operation and prolonged device lifespan, while maintaining separation efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
heating the separation membrane complex
Implementation Method 2
sudden expansion, and thermal shock
Implementation Method 3
bumping, sudden expansion, and thermal shock
Implementation Method 4
An average relative humidity of a gas A supplied to the first flow path is higher than an average relative humidity of a gas B supplied to the second flow path
Data Source
AI summary
A transient operation method for a separation device includes a separation membrane complex including: a separation membrane; and a substrate arranged on one side of the separation membrane, the separation device having a first flow path and a second flow path, the first flow path being positioned on a side closer to the separation membrane of the separation membrane complex, the second flow path being positioned on a side closer to the substrate of the separation membrane complex, the transient operation method including supplying gases to the first flow path and the second flow path, respectively, and heating the separation membrane complex. An average relative humidity of a gas A supplied to the first flow path is higher than an average relative humidity of a gas B supplied to the second flow path.