Structured Membrane Unit, Manufacturing Method and Assembly Method

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

The invention describes a specially structured membrane unit for use in membrane reactors, where the support structure includes designed cavities adjacent to the membrane for holding loose, bulk catalyst material. This design allows the catalyst to be easily inserted into or removed from the cavities without disturbing or replacing the membrane itself. The membrane unit and its structured support can be manufactured using additive manufacturing (3D printing) techniques, enabling precise and customizable designs. The invention also covers methods for manufacturing and re-equipping (refreshing or replacing the catalyst) the membrane unit.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Chemical reactors where catalyst deactivation (e.g., poisoning or coking) is common and frequent catalyst replacement is needed.
• Membrane reactors in fuel cells and electrolyzers for energy conversion and storage technology.
• Biochemical reactors where enzymes or biological catalysts need periodic replacement.
• Industrial gas separation processes that benefit from catalytic enhancement, such as hydrogen production or purification.
• Laboratories and pilot plants testing various reactions with interchangeable catalysts for process optimization and R&D.
• Long-lifetime reactor setups where reducing downtime for maintenance is critical.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Allows independent replacement or regeneration of catalyst material without replacing the entire membrane assembly, reducing maintenance costs and downtime.
• Enables separate optimization, recycling, or regeneration of both catalyst and membrane, maximizing their useful lifetimes.
• Structured support provides improved contact between catalyst and membrane, enhancing reaction efficiency and selectivity.
• Additive manufacturing enables customized, reproducible, and cost-effective fabrication of complex support structures with optimized flow and access properties.
• Minimizes mechanical stress and transport limitations on the membrane, improving reliability and performance in operation.
• Flexible design suits a wide range of membrane and catalyst materials, increasing applicability across chemical, biological, and industrial fields.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a membrane unit (10) for a membrane reactor, comprising a membrane (12) and a support structure (14) for supporting the membrane (12). The support structure (14) is structured such that cavities (18) adjoining the membrane (12) are provided for receiving catalyst material (20). In this way, loose bulk catalyst material can be introduced into the cavities and catalyst material located in the cavities can be removed from the cavities. As a result, it is possible to exchange the catalyst material independently of the membrane.