Preparation and high-temperature characterisation of nanostructured alumina ceramic membranes for gas purification

• Published in: Current applied physics Vol. 8; no. 3-4; pp. 451 - 454
• Main Authors: Kirchner, A., Brown, I.W.M., Bowden, M.E., Kemmitt, T., Smith, G.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier B.V 01.05.2008; 한국물리학회
• Subjects: Membrane fabrication; Palladium film; Porous anodic alumina; Thermal analysis; 물리학; 68.60.Dv; Porous anodic alumina; 82.45.Cc; 81.70.Pg; Thermal analysis; 81.15.−z; Membrane fabrication; Palladium film
• ISSN: 1567-1739; 1878-1675
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cap.2007.10.037

Porous anodic alumina discs supporting palladium films as elements of hydrogen-purifying membranes have been examined for their high-temperature behaviour. The method employed to fabricate the porous alumina support is the so-called ‘hard anodising’ technique, which offers substantially higher growth rates while producing mechanically robust films. These alumina membranes were found to possess a thermal stability better than commercial Anopore® membranes. Upon long-term exposure at 800°C they transform into γ-alumina without major deformation. Ultra-thin palladium films deposited across the alumina pores by physical vapour deposition are continuous and stable in reducing atmospheres to at least 700°C but are oxidised and destroyed by heating in air.