Abstract
The effect of membrane structure on permeation and separation properties for hydrocarbons through silicalite–1 membranes were investigated. Two kinds of silicalite–1 membranes were synthesized by different preparation procedures. These effective pore sizes, micropore volumes, and permeation properties were evaluated using nano– permporometry, adsorption test, and vapor permeation test. These results showed that narrowness and obstruction of micropores could occur at the grain boundaries of silicalite–1 crystals. It was suggested that reducing grain boundaries and improve pore–connectivity by the controlling crystal–stacking structure was important to obtain a highly permeable membrane.
