Introduction to IM

Research in the Inorganic Membrane group encompasses macro as well as micro scale phenomena in the field of:

-	the development of new membrane materials,

-	a better fundamental understanding of transport mechanisms,

-	the design of membrane processes and membrane reactors.

Research topics:

1. Advanced Ceramics

In general, the preparation, processing, and microstructural characteristics of powders, ceramics, and coatings are studied. It implies sol-gel chemistry for modifying micro- and meso-porous ceramic membranes as well as development of new, dense mixed ion/electron conducting membranes.

2. Solid State Ionics

Within this research theme the ionic and electronic transport properties of solid oxides are studied, which includes interfacial and electrode reactions. The focus is towards improved understanding of the fundamentals of technological applications incorporating these oxides, such as dense ceramic membranes and solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC).

3. Porous Ceramic Membranes

Here the objectives are the development of micro- and meso-porous ceramic membranes and the study of molecular transport for use in energy-efficient gas separation, pervaporation, and nanofiltration processes.


Electron microscope picture of a porous membrane, showing supporting layers and a selective hybrid silica top layer (thickness: 0.1 μm; pore size: few Ångströms).	Image of the surface of a two-phase dense, oxygen-selective, ceramic membrane, made by SEM.