AbstractA theoretical study is presented of the dependence of the vapor permeability of suitable nonhomogeneous polymer membranes on the sense of flow This is based on a simple model of a binary membrane in which the component phases A, B are either intimately mixed, with the composition of the mixture varying continuously across the membrane, or formed into a laminate AB. The influence of various parameters (which represent either properties of the component phases or the experimental conditions) on the magnitude of these flow reversal effects has been investigated. The results have proved useful as an indication of the capability of such membrane valves and of the conditions for optimum performance, as well as for the understanding of the behavior of experimental systems.