Synthesis and Characterization of α-Alumina Membrane Support and Effects of Binders

In this paper, macroporous (pore diameter larger than 50nm) symmetric ceramic membranes were prepared by dry pressing of α-alumina powder with the addition of various binders. After burning away the organic material, the compact is sintered and the porosity can be adjusted by the sintered temperature. The results show that the enhancement of sintering temperature leads to creation of compact membrane supports without any crack on the surface also it decreases the size of grains. Moreover the use of different binders and additives create various membrane supports different in the size of pores and porosity. These membranes can be used for microfiltration at elevated temperature and under extreme environmental conditions. They can be used as porous support for the production of composite-asymmetric nanofiltration membrane.