Industrial Plants /Membrane development
PERVAP™: The unique PVA membrane
The membrane is the heart of our plants. For more than 40 years, we have been setting the industry standard with our PERVAP™ technology. As the sole manufacturer of a membrane based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), we offer the strongest track record in this field. Discover the technology that makes demanding separation processes possible.
Technology and areas of application
Our PERVAP™ range is based on a unique polymer: polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). This allows us extraordinary flexibility. By specifically adjusting the degree of cross-linking, we can tailor the membrane properties exactly to the requirements of your specific separation problem.
Our expertise is not limited to a single product. We design and manufacture our own modular plate systems and have deep experience in plant design and troubleshooting with ceramic tubular membranes.
Our PERVAP™ membrane modules solve demanding separation tasks:
- Dehydration of organic solvents
- Separation of methanol from organic mixtures
- Extraction and recovery of flavours and aromas
The next generation of separation technology
Our position as a technology leader is based on continuous research and development. We are the only R&D centre worldwide specialising in pervaporation. Driven by market demands for more robust, more selective, and higher-performance membranes, we work with a consistent focus on scalability.
Our development expertise at a glance
- Product development: Our R&D team focuses on fundamental development and the scale-up of new membranes for pervaporation, nanofiltration, gas, and ultrafiltration. One key focus is on sustainability, for example, through the manufacture of membranes using bio-solvents.
- Application development: Our test centre works directly on customer orders. We apply our products to your specific separation challenge to validate the optimal industrial process solution.
- Validation: We test every new development in our laboratory and, on request, at pilot scale for permeate flux, selectivity, and stability.
Manufacture and quality assurance
We do not compromise on quality. Our manufacturing process is designed for ensure reliability and traceability. Our commitment to you is clear and binding: We test all membranes and modules thoroughly before delivery. With every delivery, you receive a corresponding inspection certificate confirming the performance and quality of your product.
Frequently asked questions
What is special about a DeltaMem PVA membrane?
Our PERVAP™ membrane is the only commercially available pervaporation membrane based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Unlike ceramic membranes, this polymer allows exceptional flexibility: by precisely adjusting the degree of cross-linking, we can tailor the membrane properties exactly to the requirements of your specific separation challenge.
What is the difference between pervaporation and nanofiltration?
Both are membrane separation processes, but they operate on different principles. Pervaporation utilises a partial pressure gradient (vacuum) and a phase change (evaporation) to selectively remove one component. Processes such as nanofiltration or ultrafiltration are purely pressure-driven, physical filtration processes without a phase change. We develop and optimize membranes for both fields of application.
Is DeltaMem able to develop a completely new membrane for my specific application?
Yes. This is one of our core competencies. We offer customised membrane development as a dedicated development project. We can act faster and a stronger focus on scalability than public research groups.
What is the typical service life of a PERVAP™ membrane?
Service life is highly dependent on the application and process conditions. Thanks to our more than 40 years of experience and the largest base of industrial references, our PERVAP™ membranes are known for their outstanding stability and robustness in continuous operation. They are among the most reliable membranes on the market.
What are the technical limits of the PVA membrane?
Our PVA membrane is highly specialised in the separation of organic solvents and offers impressive chemical and thermal stability in this field. Like any technology, it has a clearly defined range of use: it is not designed for use with strong mineral acids. Transparently clarifying compatibility with your specific process is the first step for us to begin a long-term, stable cooperation.