Generalized predictive modeling for facilitated transport membranes accounting for fixed and mobile carriers

In order to check the model suitability, simulated values have been matched to experimental data obtained by continuous flow propane/propylene permeation experiments through PVDF-HFP/BMImBF4/AgBF4 composite membranes, working with 50:50 gas mixtures at different temperature and pressure. The resultant model offers good predictions for olefin flux and provides a very useful tool for process optimization and scaling-up. To our knowledge, this is the first time that mobile and fixed site carrier mechanisms performance are simultaneously modeled considering the influence of temperature, pressure and carrier loading.