Lifecycle assessment of membrane synthesis for the application of thermo-osmotic energy conversion process

Abstract

The thermo-osmotic energy conversion (TOEC) process harnesses low-grade waste heat for electricity generation. Key to TOEC is selecting membrane materials, with polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) being common choices. This study provides the first life cycle assessment (LCA) of PTFE and PVDF membranes, assessing both lab-scale and large-scale production. It identifies key chemical contributors to their environmental impact and cumulative energy demand (CED). PTFE has a lower CED in regions with renewable energy, while PVDF may be viable in areas reliant on non-renewable biomass. These insights can inform decision-makers in strategizing the implementation of TOEC processes for sustainable development.

Keywords

• Thermo-osmotic energy conversion
• Life-cycle assessment (LCA)
• Low-grade heat
• Cumulative energy demand (CED)
• Environmental impact assessment