Reversing our reliance on fractional distillation of crude oil

By 2025-07-10T05:40:00

Inside a reverse osmosis plant with a collection of pipes and machinery.

Source: © Alex Stemmer/Shutterstock

Scientists use semi-permeable polymer membrane and reverse osmosis to separate mixtures of hydrocarbons and save energy

A new polymer membrane that can separate the hydrocarbons in crude oil could potentially save huge amounts of energy by removing the need for fractional distillation. The membrane is similar to the reverse osmosis membranes scientists use to desalinate seawater, meaning its manufacture is potentially scalable to the large volumes that the petrochemical industry would need. Use this story and accompanying slide to engage your 14–16 learners when studying hydrocarbons, fractional distillation of crude oil or reverse osmosis.

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