The use of membranes in oxygen and hydrogen separation in integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) power plants

Abstract This chapter deals with the application of membranes for oxygen and hydrogen separation in coal gasification plants for power generation and hydrogen production. High-temperature mixed ionic and electronic membranes for oxygen transport are considered first. Integration of polymeric and palladium-based membranes for hydrogen separation is then discussed. Different membrane module configurations are illustrated, along with the key principles that guide plant design. Reference is also made to plants with carbon dioxide removal given that carbon capture is one of most promising applications of membranes in the energy sector.