Preliminary analysis of mass dispersion in solid foams. Separation of nitrogen/hydrogen mixtures in a packed membrane module as a case study
Membrane reactors for low-temperature hydrogen production are receiving significant attention. The main design challenges include the choice of appropriate membranes, catalysts, and catalyst supports. Research on the mechanical supports has been addressed towards the use of solid foams; however, information regarding mass dispersion within these foams is still lacking, even though the resistance to mass transport in the packed bed may become relevant when using a good catalyst and a high-permeability membrane.