A membrane nitrogen generator (MN) is a type of membrane used to regenerate the chemical species of nitrogen and oxygen in water, which can be found in the atmosphere. They are commonly used as a catalyst to help with various chemical reactions, including the atmospheric dissociation of carbon dioxide. In addition, they are often utilized for lab experiments that require oxygen or nitrogen but not both. The two most common uses for MNs are as a part of an air-conditioning system and algae cultivation.
Working Of Membrane Nitrogen Generators
Membrane nitrogen generators involve a special membrane with high purity (99.995%) that can separate the oxygen from nitrogen using HT-MF (High Temperature and High-Pressure Membrane Filtration). The procedure is done by injecting liquid nitrogen into the bottom of the generator, which passes through a porous polyfibrous membrane.
As oxygen molecules pass through this membrane, they are separated from the nitrogenous molecules and are collected in another chamber. The desorbed oxygen is then cooled to a liquid and recycled in a reaction chamber.
Different Uses of Membrane Nitrogen Generators
Membrane Nitrogen Generators can be divided into two major categories: air-conditioning systems and biological systems such as algae cultivation. Read more the different applications of membrane nitrogen generators in laboratories:
ü In Air Conditioning Systems
The process of air conditioning indicates the removal of humidity and temperature control in a controlled environment. Membrane systems are ideal for this purpose as they do not allow any liquid to escape. This eliminates the need to add extra water treatment systems, making installation and maintenance easier compared to traditional air conditioning units. Removing the moisture from a room also reduces the chance of corrosion, which is especially useful in greenhouses or indoor agriculture facilities.
ü As a Catalyst
In addition to its use in air conditioning applications, membrane nitrogen generators can be used as a catalyst for various chemical reactions in lab settings. They generally do not require any extra sources of oxygen or nitrogen. However, if the user requires additional gas molecules, they can simply be injected back into the system after procuring them from an external source.
ü For Algae Cultivation
Membrane systems effectively remove humidity and control temperatures in indoor cultivation facilities. This makes them ideal for algae cultivation, which is necessary to produce algae-based biofuels or biodiesels. Since algae cultivation technology is relatively new, researchers continue to experiment with its many applications and benefits.
The majority of biological organisms require oxygen and carbon dioxide for metabolism. However, during the cold winter, there will often be a shortage of both materials in the atmosphere. This means that air-conditioning systems must use alternative methods such as strip aeration systems to oxygenate the air and supply carbon dioxide during colder months.
Original Sources: https://www.fuzia.com/article_detail/711741/a-preface-to-different-uses-of-membrane-nitrogen-generator
