Science of Polymeric Membranes Used in Energy Recovery

Energy recovery ventilation (ERV) is an emerging and growing application for polymeric membranes used in energy efficient building ventilation systems. In these enthalpy exchange devices, heat and moisture are transported through a membrane which separates fresh supply air streams and building exhaust air streams.  Membranes for these devices must have high water vapor permeance and good selectivity of water vapour over indoor air contaminants. They must be robust to withstand temperature and humidity cycling, condensation, and freezing. This presentation will discuss the current state of membranes for sensible and latent transfer as well as ongoing membrane research, development and testing.