SGER: Exploratory Research for New Concepts in Ultra-Rapid Cycle Adsorptive Separation

University Of Cincinnati Main Campus, Cincinnati OH

Investigators

Abstract

ABSTRACT Proposal No.: CTS-100087 Proposal Type: Investigator Initiated- SGER Principal Investigators: Vadim Guliants Institution: University of Cincinnati SGER: Exploratory Research for New Concepts in Ultra-rapid-cycle Adsorptive Separation of Air As a step in designing a micro-scale pressure-swing-adsorption (PSA) oxygen concentrator, this project measures the intracrystalline diffusion coefficients of oxygen and nitrogen in a low-silica X zeolite. The measurements are being done by use of isotopic tracers in single-crystal permeation apparatus. If the gas diffusion coefficients are as large as expected, this work will lead to the design and fabrication, using MEMS technology, of a small, light-weight oxygen concentrator for use by victims of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. This device will operate on a relatively high-frequency swing of air pressure. The experimental diffusivity values will also be useful in the engineering of conventional PSA processes as well in the theoretical modeling of zeolite adsorption and transport.