Abstract
This experimental study determines H2 transfer properties of High Density PolyEthylene (HDPE) or epoxy membranes. Two different techniques are compared. The pressure gradient technique is analyzed for permeability or diffusion. Results show that the main phenomenon involved is diffusion. The second technique involves a gas concentration gradient. Although implying significantly slower kinetics, this classical technique is consistent with results obtained with the faster pressure gradient technique.
Highlights
Polymer membranes are used in the industry as watertight sealing barriers for low-level radioactive waste storage
We investigate both scenarii for H2 presence in contact with polymer membranes, by subjecting samples either to a concentration gradient, or to a pressure gradient of hydrogen
The permeameter experiment is an accelerated measurement of gas transfer properties through polymer membranes
Summary
Polymer membranes are used in the industry as watertight sealing barriers for low-level radioactive waste storage. They are generally made of High Density PolyEthylene (HDPE) or epoxy. Polymer membranes may allow gas transfer, first without significant gas pressure gradient ΔP, and, with time, under ΔP. We investigate both scenarii for H2 presence in contact with polymer membranes, by subjecting samples either to a concentration gradient, or to a pressure gradient of hydrogen. A custom permeameter is operated at different concentrations and gas pressures It allows to quantify gas flowrate and to analyze whether gas transfer is governed by permeation (convection) or by diffusion. It is a research domain where our laboratory has wide experience, since we are able to measure gas permeabilities down to 10-22 m2 [4]
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