Molecular Sieve Carbon Permselective Membrane. Part I. Presentation of a New Device for Gas Mixture Separation

Abstract

A molecular sieve carbon membrane (MSCM) that contains no pores greater than those of molecular dimensions was produced by pyrolysis of organic compounds. The MSCM, an outcome of recent studies on molecular sieve carbon adsorbents. shows gas permeabilities and selectivities that are considerably greater than any of the presently known polymer membranes. The permeates examined were He, CO₂, O₂, N₂, and SF₆. The pore dimensions of the same starting carbon membrane may be adjusted by simple thermochemical treatments to achieve optimal separation power for any gas mixture composition.