Mathematical modelling of multicomponent membrane permeators

Mathematical models have been developed for the separation of gas mixtures involving three or more permeable components. The models describe the membrane separation process for five different flow patterns of the permeated and unpermeated stream in the permeator. Numerical solutions of the models have been obtained using the operating conditions usually encountered in life support systems such as CO2 removal from breathing gas. The effects of operating variables such as the pressure ratio across the membrane, the stage cut and the flow patterns in the permeator on the extent of separation have been discussed. A study of multistage separation has also been presented.