A simple model for pervaporative transport of binary mixtures through rubbery polymeric membranes

A new model for pervaporation of binary mixtures through rubbery polymeric membranes is proposed. The model deals with the inherent problem of plasticization in a very simple, but physically realistic manner, and consequently contains fewer parameters than prior models; thus, concentration profiles can be computed from a minimum of experimental results for pervaporation and sorption. Results from a series of ionically crosslinked poly(n-alkyl acrylate) membranes and toluene/i-octane binary mixtures are used to test the model. The model reasonably represents experimental results for pervaporative transport of toluene/i-octane mixtures through these membranes. Concentration profiles for the penetrants across the membranes are calculated from the model using experimental results and parameters obtained in the fitting process.