Quantum sieving in robust microporous zeolite SSZ-13 for efficient hydrogen isotope separation

Abstract

The separation of hydrogen isotopes presents significant challenges and is a crucial undertaking. Zeolites, such as SSZ-13, offer superior stability and structural integrity compared to other porous materials like MOFs and COFs, making them promising material for hydrogen isotope separation. This study presents the separation of hydrogen isotopes (H2 and D2) by SSZ-13 using Thermal Desorption Spectroscopy (TDS) and breakthrough techniques and showing D2/H2 selectivity of approximately 11.9 at 1 bar exposure pressure which is quite good for industrial use. Furthermore, the robustness of SSZ-13 has been demonstrated in its ability to withstand exposure to different doses of ionizing radiation that it can tolerate the decay due to radioactive T2 adsorption. © 2024 Hydrogen Energy Publications LLC