Exploring the environmental performance of electroless plated palladium alloy membranes for H2 separation: A cradle-to-gate life cycle study.

Metal-based membranes have emerged as a promising solution, providing selective permeability and impressive durability. However, a comprehensive understanding of their environmental performance across their entire life cycle remains elusive. This research offers a comprehensive life cycle assessment (LCA) of electroless plated palladium alloy-based membranes for hydrogen separation. It evaluates the environmental impacts across various stages, from the synthesis of supports to the application of intermediate and selective layers. Key findings include the identification of alumina supports and graphite intermediate layers as having minimal environmental impacts, and the Pd–Cu membrane as the most sustainable choice among palladium alloy membranes. This research advances our understanding of the eco-friendly performance of palladium based H 2 separation membranes, guiding the development of more sustainable hydrogen separation technologies. [Display omitted] • Environmental comparison of support, intermediate, and selective layers in metal-based H 2 separation membranes. • Use of the Electroless Plating method. • Alumina supports have the least environmental impact. • Graphite layers offer the lowest comprehensive environmental effects across various categories for the intermediate layers. • Pd–Cu membrane is the most sustainable choice in Pd alloy membranes due to its minimal environmental impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]