NANOPOROUS CARBON MEMBRANES FOR SEPARATION OF GAS-MIXTURES BY SELECTIVE SURFACE FLOW

A novel nanoporous carbon membrane produced by carbonization of poly(v inylidene chloride) is described. The membrane separates gas mixtures by selective adsorption and surface diffusion of the more strongly ads orbed components. In particular, the membrane can very efficiently sep arate hydrocarbons from hydrogen from low-pressure gas streams. The me thod of preparation of the membrane and its characterization, pure and mixed gas permeabilities through the membrane, as well as an industri al application are reported.