IEA IETS TCP Task 17 – Emerging membrane technologies for energy efficient separation of lignocellulosic biomass in biorefineries

Methodologically, the IEA IETS TCP Task 17 project worked on a decision support for the application of emerging membrane processes in addition to a detailed literature review and scientific experiments with MD and LMP on membrane selection, cleaning, fouling and long-term behavior. This is summarized in the form of a guideline “Membranes in Biorefineries- Guideline” describing a possible procedure for the evaluation of the use of an emerging membrane process. It describes a way to define technological criteria and evaluate it with respect to its suitability in specific applications. The selection of suitable pretreatment or purification strategies is also supported by a methodical approach.

The work of the international Annex 17 will be continued at national level with the project IEA IETS Annex 171 – “Membrane Processes in Biorefineries”. The pulp and paper sector will be extended to other biorefinery applications in this follow-up project and long-term studies with emerging membrane processes will be carried out.