In previous research, my focus was studying the feasibility of using ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) to fabricate low-cost & free-sinter ceramic membranes through alkali activation. The studies demonstrated the high potential of alkali-activated blast furnace slag in the field of ceramic membranes, offering it as an alternative material for preparing dense & porous ceramic membranes. However, a crucial realization was that the type of slag should align with the desired advantages for the final application of ceramic membranes. Over the years, I have continued my research on the relationship between slag types and the properties of ceramic membranes fabricated using alkali-activated slags.
Now, I am pleased to share a part of my research titled ''Phosphoric acid industry waste valorization through fabrication of alkali-activated phosphorus slag-based ceramic membranes: synthesis and optimization for dehydration of ethanol''. This research represents the first attempt to address the challenges of alkali-activated blast furnace slag ceramic membranes by exploring alkali-activated phosphorus slag as a potential material for synthesizing ceramic membranes. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis was conducted on the interplay between key factors influencing the properties of common alkali-activated cementitious materials and their impact on membrane properties, including hydrophilicity, flexural strength, and topographical properties, thermogravimetric characterization and membrane performance.
I would like to draw your attention to a unique aspect of this study, which focuses on the morphology of alkali-activated ceramic membranes (AACMs). By employing FESEM & AFM imaging techniques at various scales ranging from microns to nanometers, a striking resemblance between the morphology of AACMs and alkali-activated cementitious materials has been established.
This research provides a unique perspective on the world of ceramic membranes, with a focus on addressing and mitigating their challenges (e.g., expensive materials, sintering, complex fabrication method). Moreover, it emphasizes the alignment with the UN-Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs), specifically SDG 12.