High-temperature polybenzimidazole membrane for hydrogen
This technology covers a new class of polymers called polybenzimidazoles that incorporate sulfone groups into their molecular backbone. These materials are synthesized through a specific chemical process starting from commercially available precursors. The resulting polymers form membranes capable of operating at high temperatures to selectively separate hydrogen gas from carbon dioxide — a critical step in hydrogen purification and carbon capture workflows. The sulfonyl modification improves the polymer's chemical and thermal performance compared to conventional polybenzimidazoles.
What you could build
High-temperature gas separation membrane modules sold to hydrogen producers, refineries, or industrial gas companies seeking to purify hydrogen streams or capture CO2 without energy-intensive cryogenic or pressure-swing adsorption methods.
Who in Virginia should care
Defense and energy contractors in Virginia (e.g., those supporting naval propulsion or fuel cell programs at Norfolk/Newport News) or chemical manufacturers with gas processing operations would have plausible interest.
Readiness: Lab validated
Concept — described but not yet demonstrated. Lab validated — supported by experimental results in the patent. Prototype likely — the text describes a built, working embodiment.
Readiness is inferred from the patent text, not from a lab visit.
The record
- Inventors
- —
- Granted
- January 29, 2019
- Status
- Granted patent
- Patent number
- 102850
Ready to talk?
Virginia Tech Intellectual Properties handles licensing for this technology. Email us for an introduction prosim@harbor.capital.
Prosim summaries are generated from public patent text and are not legal advice.