Classification and Application of Inorganic Ceramic Membranes

The material of the inorganic ceramic membrane determines the physical and chemical properties of the membrane, and then determines the main performance indicators of the ceramic membrane such as hydrophilicity, anti-pollution, high temperature resistance, acid and alkali resistance, and thermal stability. According to different materials for preparing inorganic ceramic membranes, it can be mainly divided into ceramic membranes such as alumina (Al2O3), zirconia (ZrO2), titanium oxide (TiO2) and silicon oxide (SiO2).

Under normal conditions, ceramic membrane modules and membrane devices can be used stably in a working environment below 800 °C, so ceramic membranes are especially suitable for high-temperature, high-viscosity fluids, and some liquids that are not suitable for chemical cleaning can be steam sterilized.

It is resistant to erosion by organic solvents and has strong resistance to microbial degradation. When dealing with strong acid and alkali materials, it is particularly important to have excellent chemical stability. The ceramic membrane can be cleaned directly with hot alkali or acid, and it can be used stably in such high temperature environment.

The ceramic membrane can generally withstand pressure of more than 3Mpa, will not deform under high pressure conditions, and is resistant to high-speed erosion and wear, which is convenient for recoil and cleaning.

The microstructure of the inorganic ceramic membrane can be regulated purposefully by controlling the selection of raw materials for preparation or the control of parameters such as pretreatment process, molding process, and sintering.

In the field of industrial separation, the service life of ceramic membranes is generally 3-5 years, or even longer, so the later replacement and maintenance costs are greatly reduced compared with organic membranes.