Pd-based membranes performance under hydrocarbon exposure for propane dehydrogenation processes: Experimental and modeling

In this work, a novel Pd–Ag double-skinned (DS-) membrane is used for the first time in conditions typical of propane dehydrogenation (PDH). This presents protective layer on top H2-selective one, which acts as shield against chemical deactivation and mechanical erosion under reaction conditions. While already been proven an efficient barrier fluidized beds, there no validation yet PDH reaction. The DS- performance compared with conventional (C-) alkane/alkene exposure, at 400–500 °C 3 bar, to investigate whether incorporation would be suited H2 separation systems, if coking rate affected. shows permeance 2.28 × 10?6 mol?m?2 s?1?Pa?1 500 ?C 4 bar pressure difference, overcoming PdAg one (1.56x?10?6 mol m?2 s?1?Pa?1). Both membranes present stable flux alkane while occurs exposure alkenes. A model able describe through Pd-based presented fit experimental data predict performance. includes mass transfer limitations retentate corrective inhibition factor account competitive adsorption hydrocarbon species selective layer. results obtained alkene deviates from predictions; can attributed carbon deposition surface layer, further detected DS-membrane by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)/Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (EDX), main deactivation.