TNO introduces its Pilot-Scale Molecular Separation Unit, a state-of-the-art, containerized skid designed for real-world demonstration and validation of membrane-based separations. This highly flexible system can accommodate different membrane types and modules, including HybSi®, polymeric, and zeolite-based membranes, making it suitable for a wide range of pervaporation, vapor permeation, and nanofiltration applications across industries.
The unit supports three key membrane processes:
✅ Pervaporation – Selective separation of liquids via vaporization through a membrane, ideal for solvent dehydration and azeotrope breaking.
✅ Vapor Permeation – Separation of vapor-phase components, suitable for organic solvent recovery and gas purification.
✅ Nanofiltration – Pressure-driven separation for selective filtration of small molecules (300–2000 Da) in aqueous and organic mixtures.
Industrial Applications
✔ Bio-based chemicals & solvents – Dewatering organic compounds such as IPA, glycols, THF, acetonitrile, MEK, DMF, ethyl acetate, and NMP.
✔ Azeotrope separation – Efficient methanol/DMC separation and organic acid dehydration (e.g., acetic, acrylic, succinic acids).
✔ Process intensification – In-situ dehydration for esterification reactions and distillation debottlenecking.
✔ Sustainability – Energy-efficient molecular separation for CO₂ footprint reduction and circular processing in chemical, pharmaceutical, and bioprocess industries.
Cutting-Edge Design & Safety
🔹 Modular and mobile – Housed in a 20-ft container for easy deployment at industrial sites.
🔹 High-performance operation – 500 kg/h feed flow, 180°C max temp, 10 bar max pressure.
🔹 Flexible membrane compatibility – Supports HybSi®, PERVAP, and Pervatech modules.
🔹 ATEX Zone 1 compliant – Certified for safe operation in hazardous environments.
This fully instrumented and automated pilot skid, operated by TNO experts, enables continuous, 24/7 testing under real process conditions.
For detailed information See the Factsheet document
🔎 Interested in testing your application? Contact us to explore pilot-scale validation opportunities!