1.Because membrane processes can separate at the molecular scale up to a scale at which particles can actually be seen, this implies that a very large number of separation needs might actually be met by membrane processes. 2.Membrane processes generally do not require a phase change to make a separation (with the exception of pervaporation). As a result, energy requirements will be low unless a great deal of energy needs to be expended to increase the pressure of a feed stream in order to drive the permeating component(s) across the membrane. 3.Membrane processes present basically a very simple flowsheet. There are no moving parts (except for pumps or compressors), no complex control schemes, and little ancillary equipment compared to many other processes. As such, they can offer a simple, east-to-operate, low maintenance process option. 4.Membranes can be produced with extremely high selectivities for the components to be separated. In general, the values of these selectivities are much higher than typical values for relative volatility for distillation operations. 5.Because of the fact that a very large number of polymers and inorganic media can be used as membranes, there can be a great deal of control over separation selectivities. 6.Membrane processes are able to recover minor but valuable components from a main stream without substantial energy costs. 7.Membrane processes are potentially better for the environment since the membrane approach require the use of relatively simple and non-harmful materials.