(273b) Application of Nafion Membranes to the Sulphur Iodine Cycle

Across the World there is a significant R&D effort
concentrated on the Sulphur Iodine cycle, with a view to efficient hydrogen
production from water.  This paper investigates the application of Nafion^®
membranes to both the HI_x and H₂SO₄ processing
sections.

Flux and selectivity data using a stirred batch process for
the dewatering of HI-H₂O-I₂ solutions have previously
been presented.  Here, this work is continued by using a continuous flow set up
similar to those used in industrial membrane processes.  Excellent separation
factors were achieved and the data collected correlated closely with that from
previous experiments.

Simulations have been performed to identify the potential
benefits of dewatering the H₂SO₄ solution leaving the
Bunsen section.  An experimental programme has also been carried out, assessing
the stability and applicability of Nafion^® membranes for water
separation by pervaporation.  Different thickness Nafion^® membranes have been investigated, across a
range of temperatures and acid concentrations, and the results are presented
here.