High temperature membranes for H sub 2 S and SO sub 2 separations

High temperature membrane separation techniques have been applied to gas mixtures involved in coal utilization. For coal gasification, H{sub 2}S has been removed from the syn-gas stream, split into hydrogen, which enriches the syn-gas, and sulfur, which can be condensed from an inert gas sweep stream. For coal combustion, SO{sub 2} has been separated from the flue gas, with concentrated SO{sub 3} produced as a by-product. Both processes appear economically viable but each requires fundamental improvements: both the H{sub 2}S cell and the SO{sub 2} cell require more efficient membranes and the H{sub 2}S cell needs a more efficient anode. Membranes will be fabricated by either hot-pressing, impregnation of sintered bodies or tape casting. Research conducted during the present quarter is highlighted, with an emphasis on progress towards these goals