The EERC is testing and evaluating hydrogen separation membranes for hydrogen
purification. Hydrogen separation membranes provide one method of purifying hydrogen
for use in fuel cell applications. Optimal testing requires the membrane systems to
operate under a wide range of conditions and with a wide range of feed gases. The
membranes are designed to allow hydrogen to pass through, while all other impure
gases are separated out, providing an ultrapure hydrogen stream.
The EERC is working with industry partners to produce a pure stream of hydrogen from
coal feedstocks. Coal is first converted into a synthesis gas (or syngas) using
gasifiers designed and built by the EERC. The syngas produced consists mainly of
hydrogen (H2), carbon monoxide (CO), and carbon dioxide (CO2), but other undesirable
impurities such as sulfur remain. The EERC uses novel technologies to remove the
impurities and maximize the hydrogen content of the syngas. The hydrogen separation
membrane is then used to produce a stream of hydrogen with purity greater than 99.9%,
which is suitable for fuel cell applications. Partners on the project include the
North Dakota Industrial Commission, Great River Energy, North American Coal Company,
Rio Tinto, Luminant, EPRI, and the Porvair Filtration Group.
Hydrogen Separation Membranes Technical Brief
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