Porous cenosphere ceramic microfiltration membrane: Preparation, characterization, permeability evaluation, and cost estimation

Abstract

Ceramic membranes are now receiving greater attention and are regarded as the best alternative option for reducing energy use. There are currently a number of limitations on the use of ceramic membranes, including high raw material costs and high sintering temperatures during synthesis. Cost‐effective raw materials were employed in the synthesis of ceramic membranes to get around these restrictions. Utilizing a straightforward pressing technique, circular disc‐type membranes were prepared. To assess the membrane properties, the impact of sintering temperatures between 700 and 900°C was examined. By varying the sintering temperature, the average membrane pore diameter was observed. The membrane, which was sintered at 800°C, had pores that were on average 110 nm in size. Furthermore, the porosity of these synthesized membranes ranged from 22% to 35% with an average pore diameter of 74–121 nm. These manufactured membranes showed very good chemical stability when both acidic and basic solutions were used. Various characterization methods, including thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), x‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were used. Thermo‐gravimetric investigation revealed that the synthesized cenosphere membrane required a minimum sintering temperature of about 700°C. The flux measured with deionized water and the applied transmembrane pressure showed an upward trend. The impact of sintering temperature on permeate flux was investigated. The results showed that as the sintering temperature increased from 700°C to 900°C, the flux reduced. It was determined that the synthesized membrane cost ₹1618.80/m2.