9514846 Lin International corporation is proposed on a research project aimed at developing a novel ceramic membrane reactor for efficient conversion of methane to ethylene. The membrane reactor uses a proton-conducting ceramic membrane with a surface which is catalytically active for methane coupling. The research project consists of membrane synthesis by various methods, membrane characterization, and hydrogen permeation/methane conversion reaction on the membrane reactor. The project is of multi-disciplinary nature, involving solid state ionics, chemical vapor deposition, catalysis and reaction engineering. Collaborative research is proposed with a Chinese laboratory which has demonstrated a long term research experience in solid state ionics and chemical vapor deposition. Collaborative research activities include (1) Metal-organic chemical vapor deposition synthesis and electrochemical characterization of the ceramic membranes at the Chinese laboratory and (2) Electrical conductivity measurements of thin ceramic membranes and hydrogen permeation/methane conversion reaction on membrane reactors in the PI's laboratory. The collaboration will result in fast development of the novel ceramic membrane reactor for effective conversion of methane in an environmentally benign manner. Experience gained through the collaboration will help establish facilities for electrochemical characterization of high temperature ceramics and metal-organic chemical vapor deposition of thin ceramic films in the PI's laboratory.
