D ecisions for determining the current stage of technology life cycle (TLC) based on reliable data, are necessary. The inherent links between patents and science and technology make them essential sources for data on any technology. In the light of this, and considering the importance of patent information for the firm's strategic decisions, we have attempted to use patent data as a source of information to identify the level of a technology in the S-Curve. This paper starts with the literature review of the life cycle and the role of patents at

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In the present study, the morphology of asymmetric poly(vinylidene fluoride) blend membranes which were prepared by the phase inversion method is rationalized by comparing two non-dimensional number represent thermodynamic and kinetic properties of the prepared membrane. These two parameters change phase diagram and demixing rate between solvent and nonsolvent. TiO 2 nanoparticles and polyvinylpyrrolidone were used as additives. Hansen solubility parameters of the components are calculated by Van Krevelen method. Furthermore, kinetic and thermodynamic properties of the prepared solutions are determined by drawing phase diagrams and controlling mass transfer rate during precipitation of casting solution. Besides, to further analyze different tests encompass; permeability, rejection, porosity, pore size determination, contact angle, and field emission scanning electron microscopy images were carried out. It is shown, additives as pore former induced higher permeability and porosity, however, at higher concentration of additives high viscosity obstacle mass transfer and sponge-like morphology is obtained. Nadour et al. 12 added methylcellulose (MC) as a pore former to polysulfone membrane. It is reported, by increasing the concentration of MC until 0.5% the permeability increased and more finger-like pores appeared.In the present research, the effect of TiO 2 nanoparticles and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) on the features of PVDF membranes, which were prepared by the phase inversion method, is V C 2018 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The idea of establishing faster/facilitated transport through liquid membranes (LMs) is both theoretically fascinating and promising for applications. One of the most selective, along with lots of desirable promising forms of LMs, is supported liquid membranes (SLMs). Since the introduction of the idea of SLMs a few decades ago, research activities in this sector have been continuously increased. Through a comprehensive analysis of the current state of the art, this review demonstrates the design and application considerations that must be made when determining whether to employ polymeric or ceramic supports in SLMs for gas separation. Following a thorough analysis of the principles of LMs, including their chronology, transport mechanism, and advantages and disadvantages are presented. The various configurations suggested up to date, their road from the laboratory to practical implementation, and their performance are discussed. Finally, potential challenges and opportunities are outlined.