Silicone rubber membrane for extraction of high vapor tension toxic substances. Experiences with ammonia and ethanol.

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the permeability of a silicone rubber membrane to two toxic substances, ammonia and ethanol, under high vapor tension. A device was assembled for testing the diffusion of the substances through a silicone rubber membrane interposed between two aqueous phases. 9 experiences were carried out with ammonia at different temperatures: 3 at 11 degrees C, 3 at 24 degrees C and 3 at 37 degrees C. 8 experiences were carried out with ethanol at different temperatures: 3 at 11 degrees C, 3 at 24 degrees C and 2 at 37 degrees C. Mean transmembrane flow (mumol/m2 X h) for ammonia was 43.99 at 11 degrees C, 59.18 at 24 degrees C and 145.45 at 37 degrees C. Mean transmembrane flow (mmol/m2 X h) for ethanol was 6.48 at 11 degrees C, 12.54 at 24 degrees C and 22.51 at 37 degrees C. The results confirm that ammonia and ethanol in water solution can pass through a silicone rubber membrane. Better results could be expected with both aqueous phases in motion as in dialysis devices.