Zeolite-based catalytic membrane reactors for thermo-catalytic conversion of CO.

Zeolite-based catalytic membrane reactors have been successfully applied in overcoming the thermodynamic limitations of CO hydrogenations and dry reforming of methane (DRM) reactions. This review summarizes the zeolites as membrane reactor components regarding the permeance, permselectivity, durability, conversion, selectivity, and stability by referring to the synergy of catalyst and membrane. Also, five operation parameters (temperature, pressure, feed ratio, sweeping gas flow rate, and gas hourly space velocity) are introduced regarding their impacts on the performance of membrane reactor. Besides, synthesis methods and conditions for zeolite membranes are critically illustrated in the category. Moreover, representative surface and structure properties of zeolite membranes are discussed by relating to the synthesis-structure-performance relationships. Finally, conclusive remarks are demonstrated and possible solutions to existing challenges are proposed. So far, this is the first time to discuss the applications of zeolite membrane reactors in the CO adsorption, separation, activation, and conversion in reforming and hydrogenation processes.