Boosting the performance of natural gas sweetening membrane plants

The performance of membrane separation processes is mainly driven by the specific separation performance of the membrane modules in addition to smart integration of this separation unit in the overall process design. The setup of membrane modules for polymeric membranes is often based on either flat sheets or hollow fibers. Given the one or the other concept, the implemented membrane material and separation layer thickness defines the maximum performance of the module with a supportive housing design. Thus, the ability to modify intrinsic properties of the polymer and the control of the membrane formation process are key factors to produce a superior membrane product. This is where competencies of a specialty chemicals company, i.e. Evonik, can contribute to unique membrane solutions for the market. Based on Evonik’s polymer chemistry platform a crosslinked and highly selective membrane was developed, which is highly stable under natural gas process-conditions. This membrane shows very good results in terms of achievable hydrocarbon yields in combination with an optimized hydrocarbon and plasticization stability.