Abstract The existing processes producing light olefins are highly energy intensive, requiring innovative approaches. Membrane engineering, as already demonstrated in different fields, can have an interesting share in the shift towards sustainable productions. The current abundant availability of ‘shale gas’ requires sustainable choices and a delocalized approach that avoids underutilization or waste of methane. This scenario is highly favourable for new technologies such as the Membrane Reactors that are advanced reactors in the Process Intensification logic. Membrane Reactors can accomplish the methane conversion to ethylene, valorizing these resources. In addition, being modular and automated, they are particularly suited for dislocated/remote locations. At the same time, Membrane Reactors can exploit the potential of CO2 as feedstock through a recycle strategy. Different conversion options and the most promising membrane-based alternatives are described, proposing their integration for a sustainable ethylene production.

中文翻译：

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用于乙烯可持续生产的膜工程

摘要 现有生产轻质烯烃的工艺是高度能源密集型的，需要创新的方法。正如已经在不同领域证明的那样，膜工程可以在向可持续生产的转变中发挥重要作用。当前“页岩气”的丰富供应需要可持续的选择和避免甲烷利用不足或浪费的非本地化方法。这种情况非常有利于新技术，例如作为过程强化逻辑中的先进反应器的膜反应器。膜反应器可以将甲烷转化为乙烯，从而使这些资源增值。此外，它们是模块化和自动化的，特别适用于错位/偏远的位置。同时，膜反应器可以通过循环策略利用 CO2 作为原料的潜力。描述了不同的转换选项和最有前途的基于膜的替代方案，建议将它们整合起来以实现可持续的乙烯生产。