Fabrication Challenges in Synthesizing Porous Ceramic Membrane to Effective Flue Gas Treatment

Abstract

Global warming is a serious concern worldwide, and many sources contribute to the rise in the temperature of Earth. One major source is air pollution. It is of utmost importance to apply the necessary remedial actions to address the contaminants in outdoor and indoor environments. In this research, a step is taken to treat flue gases, for which membrane technology is introduced. A porous ceramic membrane is synthesised from calcined porous alumina (Al2O3) and activated washed fly ash. Some other additives such as starch (C6H10O5) n, binder solution along with ethyl silicate (C8H2O4Si) and a deflocculating agent carbonic acid (H2CO3) are employed. Some of the issues faced during the fabrication of a porous ceramic membrane are discussed, i.e., cracks in membrane sample, nonactive reactant issue, uneven rise or fall during demoisturisation or sintering steps. The membrane sample is characterised through different tests, including thermogravimetric analysis and DTG. Satisfactory results are obtained, with a negligible percentage weight loss after 750 °C. X-ray fluorescence for fly ash portrayal and X-ray diffraction analysis for structure assessment are conducted, which describe that the fabricated membrane has a crystalline structure similar to ceramic. Archimedes’ principle is used to determine the bulk density and porosity of the membrane sample, and the values are 4.484 g/cm3 and 62.5%, respectively. An average pore size of 7.6 µm is identified through optical microscopy, and the mechanical strength is determined to be 2.7 MPa. Furthermore, a pilot-scale visual permeability test is performed for flue gas treatment of combustion fuel containing tyre and coal powder. The results show the compatibility of the fabricated porous ceramic membrane to be utilised for the treatment of flue gases.