Apparatus and process for selectively removing a component from a multicomponent aqueous solution by pervaporation

N J I T
posted on 06/30/2009

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A pervaporation process for selectively removing a component from a multicomponent aqueous solution which is practiced with an assembly comprising a feed chamber for holding and introducting the multicomponent aqueous solution to be treated therein, the feed chamber having a pressure, an exit chamber having a pressure, and located adjacent to the feed chamber and downstream thereof; at least one membrane composite located between the feed chamber and the exit chamber and adapted for fluid registry therewith, the membrane composite comprised of a porous membrane having a first and second surface, and a nonporous membrane permanently disposed on the second surface of the porous membrane, and having a permeability selective to the component, the membrane composite aligned such that the nonporous membrane is connected to the feed chamber; and a vacuum pump connected to the exit chamber for evacuating the component from the chamber. The process comprises the steps of introducing the multicomponent aqueous solution into the feed chamber, evacuating the component from the exit chamber, so that the pressure in the exit chamber is less than the pressure in the feed chamber, contacting the multicomponent aqueous solution with the first surface of the porous membrane.