ABSTRACT
The objective of this paper is to focus on the potential applications of membrane technology offshore. The presentation is based on the results of some recent work carried out by Global Engineering for the Offshore Supplies Office (OSO, the Department of Energy). The study commissioned by the Department assessed the commercial status of membrane technology for offshore applications, and examined the weight savings and economics of transferring this predominantly onshore applied technology to offshore use. I intend in this paper to present the key conclusions of this study, and in so doing to give an impression of the technology and the markets from an offshore perspective. I shall also try to identify current oil company or operator perceptions of this new technology. I shall conclude with a few words on the prospects for the UK supply industry in exploiting the offshore opportunities, the areas which would require transfer of technology and the likely role for UK R & D in encouraging the development of membranes for offshore uses.
