Comparative analysis of the membrane system with lack of gas recirculation and system with gas recirculation concerning energy consumption of the o₂/n₂ separation process in polymer membranes for oxy-combustion systems application

In the paper, the comparative analysis of results of the research concerning energy consumption of separation process and influence of operational parameters is presented. Results are acquired basing on experimental and computational research. Scope of the analysis is stated within cascade system with lack of gas recirculation and membrane system with gas recirculation. Investigation is performed using UBE NM-BO2A capillary polymer membrane. In the paper, operational characteristics of compared systems, obtained both on the basis of experiment and computational investigation, are presented. Results were obtained basing on varying feed pressure of the membrane module, as well as varying feed flows. Furthermore, comparison of the two systems concerning influence of their selected operational parameters and possibility of application in oxy-combustion systems is performed. Rationality of discussed systems application to industrial and power oxy-combustion systems is emphasized. Investigated systems are characterized by number of advantages and certain limitations caused by mechanical properties. The paper states a part of research on possibility of use of discussed membrane technology in industrial systems and power oxy-combustion units.