Chapter 16 - Selective separation and storage of energy gases: fundamentals

Abstract

The use of energy gas carriers with higher calorific values such as methane (CH4) and hydrogen (H2) for pure chemical or electrochemical forms of energy utilization is the most attractive alternative to limited combustion, carbon-rich and environmentally harmful fossil fuels (such as diesel and gasoline). The selective separation and efficient storage of these energy gases, while reducing the carbon footprint, is recognized as one of the major tasks in the transition to a progressive, sustainable and environmentally friendly society on a global scale. The development of functional microporous materials (including polymers, carbon materials or organic metal materials) is the basis for gas separation and storage. In this chapter, the basic principle, separation and storage mechanism, adsorbing materials and application prospects for the selective separation and storage of various energy gases are briefly reviewed.