Perovskite membranes for oxygen separation

The use of perovskite oxides for the manufacture of oxygen transport membranes is a potential alternative for the energy- and cost-intensive technologies currently used for oxygen manufacture. Structural characteristics are described for the perovskite oxides, as well as the oxygen separation mechanism. The many synthesis and preparation techniques under research and development are presented, including the influences of the membrane geometry on the oxygen fluxes, as well as perovskite membrane characterization. Finally, the membrane performance through the years is analyzed and the potential for using perovskite membranes for oxy-fuel combustion. Throughout the chapter, the discussion permeates through topics that allow the evaluation of the potential that this technology currently presents for widespread commercial use, as well as the many practical challenges.