| abstract |
A process for separating a monosaccharide from an aqueous solution comprising monosaccharides and a second component comprising a polysaccharide. The mixture is contacted with a mixed matrix membrane comprising a adsorbent or molecular sieve material dispersed in an organic polymer in which the monosaccharide has a greater steady state permeability than the polysaccharide. The monosaccharide passes through the membrane, and is recovered. Particular mixed matrix membranes found to be useful in separating mono from polysaccharides are silicalite, gamma-alumina, activated carbon or a calcium exchanged Y-zeolite dispersed in cellulose acetate or polyelectrolyte complex polymers. |