As part of our optimization effort, we have conducted a comprehensive study to investigate the morphology and crystal growth kinetics of hydrotalcite powder formation. Based upon the information obtained from this study, we resumed the membrane optimization activities. Although the selectivity of the membrane remains in the Knudsen regime, the permeance decreases along with the number of impregnation. Thus, the permeance could be reduced to a minimum through repeated impregnation. Then, the membrane can be sealed with chemical vapor deposition technique. More characterization results on the membranes prepared will be available in the next quarterly report.