Separation enhanced methanol and dimethyl ether synthesis

Abstract

Separation enhanced reaction processes are promising process intensification strategies for carbon dioxide utilisation. In recent years, major improvements have been made in adsorption and membrane technology for the direct production of methanol and dimethyl ether from carbon dioxide rich feedstock and hydrogen. In situ water removal results in high single-pass conversions, thereby circumventing the disadvantages of conventional routes, such as the low carbon efficiency, energy intensive downstream separation and large recycles. In situ water removal by adsorption results in extremely high single-pass conversion and yield, especially in direct DME production. Membrane reactors allow for high single-pass conversion and yield, especially for methanol production. Here, we highlight recent advances in membrane and adsorption-enhanced synthesis of methanol and DME.