Catalytic Ceramic Membranes and Membrane Reactors

Abstract

Ceramic membranes represent a comparatively new class of materials which can be prepared from a variety of organometallic or inorganic precursors using sol-gel synthesis routes. The physico-chemical properties of these membranes depend on both the specific compounds used as precursors and the experimental protocol used in their preparation. In this paper, we discuss the key variables controlling the preparation of these membranes as well as the physico-chemical properties which make them good candidates for use as in catalytic membrane reactors. Finally, by way of a kinetic model for a specific reaction (the dehydrogenation of diethylbenzene to styrene), we illustrate the limitations as well as advantages of employing these membranes in catalytic reactors.