(318a) Advanced Membranes for PM2.5 Filtering, Ethanol Dehydration, and Air Dehumidification

Thermodynamically, the membrane process is the most efficient way to separate mixtures. It is evident that almost all the filtering and separation in living systems are conducted via a membrane. The membrane technologies are an attractive approach to addressing energy efficiency and environmental emission problems that are of significant concerns to the society. In this presentation, removal of PM2.5 particulates from air and separation of water molecules from a liquid of gas mixture are used as application examples in the environment and energy efficiency areas, respectively. The current technologies and recent development will be critically reviewed and compared for each of these technology subjects. Novel filtration membranes will be introduced for complete (>99%) removal of PM2.5 particulates in a very efficient way. Novel molecular sieve membranes will be shown for dehydration of ethanol/water with 98% more efficient than conventional distillation and adsorption, and for dehumidification of atmospheric air with more than 50% efficiency enhancement compared to conventional air conditioners.