7 - Perovskite membrane reactors: Fundamentals and applications for oxygen production, syngas production and hydrogen processing

Abstract

This chapter addresses research and development of membrane reactors utilizing perovskite materials which can conduct oxygen ions and hydrogen protons at high temperatures; they are therefore finding applications in oxygen and hydrogen separation and reaction processes. This chapter introduces the structure, transport mechanisms and performance of various perovskite membrane materials, followed by an in-depth analysis of employing perovskite membranes for both oxidative and non-oxidative reactions. The membrane function of either selectively removing a reactant to shift the equilibrium or selectively adding a reactant to control the reaction mechanism and associated side reactions is important. We end by discussing future research trends and the major challenges that must be overcome for industrial take-up of this technology.