MedArray’s breakthrough technology makes available for the first time the benefits of silicone in hollow fiber format. Using a proprietary forming process, the company creates self-supporting polydimethyl siloxane (PDMS) silicone hollow fibers with an outside diameter of only 237 microns, about the width of two human hairs, and wall thickness of only 35 microns. Precisely controlled packing of the hollow fibers into a module allows MedArray to achieve modularized density (surface area to volume) of over 9,000 m2/m3.
Silicone has long been used in gas separation applications and in liquid contacting, typically in spiral-wound sheet form. Silicone is a dense material, without pores, in which gases dissolve and then diffuse through. With no pores to clog, silicone can be used where other materials, such as microporous membranes, cannot be incorporated due to fouling.
The commercially available PermSelect® module offers a nominal 1.0m2 surface area in a lab-sized 2” diameter, 5-1/2” long polycarbonate shell. It features a radial flow design, with five ports for flexibility. It is appropriate for research, proof of concept, and scale-up planning.
MedArray’s silicone hollow fibers are uniform, without a supporting material, to allow full access to the benefits of silicone. Because the hollow fibers are non-porous, performance problems associated with fouling are avoided. This makes the PermSelect® membrane modules suitable for liquid contacting applications, such as degassing liquids, even those with low surface tension. In addition, silicone’s unique and well-characterized permeation properties suggest application in CO2 capture, hydrocarbon separations, environmental humidity control, and pervaporation processes.
Environmental concerns are prompting companies to consider membrane separation systems within their process streams to reduce the need for chemical treatments. PermSelect® membrane modules can be used to add or remove oxygen, carbon dioxide and nitrogen to or from various liquids, in industries including food and beverages, pharmaceutical, semiconductor and others. PermSelect® membrane modules are currently being evaluated by customers for bioproduction of alternative fuels.
About MedArray
MedArray is a membrane technology company engaged in developing and manufacturing dense membrane hollow fibers utilizing proprietary forming techniques. MedArray's silicone hollow fiber membranes are used in specialized applications that require the addition or separation of various gases to or from liquids and gases. Based in Ann Arbor, MI, MedArray is an emerging leader in specialty applications of hollow fiber membranes. For more information, visit www.permselect.com.
