Dehydrogenation Reactions Incorporating Membrane Catalysis

Dehydrogenation (DH) is the removal of hydrogen from an organic compound to generate new chemicals. DH reactions are among the most important processes in the petrochemical industry to convert light alkanes into alkenes. These alkenes are precursors for many valuable chemicals. DH reactions are also used for hydrogen generation. Usually, the DH reaction takes place at a higher temperature, and catalysts have some disadvantages such as catalyst deactivation. Membrane catalysis is one of the most prominent techniques to overcome these problems. Since hydrogen is widely considered a promising energy source due to its properties, namely, a low atomic mass, immense energy output, etc., membranes are considered for hydrogen production processes in conjunction with their pre-requisite catalyst. Palladium has been the most extensively researched metal for its use as a catalyst for membrane reactors. A membrane catalytic system is used to adsorb hydrogen (higher selectivity of hydrogen) from reactions conducted accordingly, and it has been suggested that such a system generates higher-yield products than conventional methodologies. In addition, it reduces by-product formation and enhances the stability of catalysts. This chapter focuses on the role of membrane catalysis, gives an in-depth explanation of its various composites, and enlists its various applications pertaining to DH in various industrial processes.