Biogas is a gaseous mixture consisting primarily of methane and carbon dioxide. It is produced from the breakdown of organic waste by microorganisms. Due to the presence of methane, biogas has the potential to be converted into a value-added product. There are currently several methods of separating methane from the other components of a given biogas; however, these techniques have limitations. While promising, membrane separation falls short of improving on current techniques due to the high pressures required for sufficient permeance. Thus, methods to improve the selectivity and permeance of methane in PDMS membranes have been explored. In this project, we will investigate the effects of various nanoparticles and activated carbon embedded in polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) to enhance the separation of carbon dioxide and methane in biogas. In addition, the effects of temperature and membrane thickness on gas separations will be investigated.
Author(s): Will Tegtmeyer, Godwin Adjei, Dr. Catherine Almquist
Advisor: Catherine Almquist, Chemical Engineering
You must be logged in to post a comment.