| abstract |
A composite semipermeable membrane comprising microporous adsorbent material supported by a porous substrate is utilized to separate hydrogen-hydrocarbon mixtures and a sweep gas comprising some of the same hydrocarbons is passed across the low pressure side of the membrane to enhance hydrocarbon permeability. Methane is an effective sweep gas which promotes the permeation of heavier hydrocarbons even when methane is present in the membrane feed. |