Synthesis of Inorganic Membranes

Abstract

The aim of this introductory section is twofold. In the first place, the large variety of different synthesis methods and techniques will be placed against the background of membrane types and structures. These will be briefly summarized with focus on their relation with synthesis aspects. This will justify a selection of two groups of methods: those which will be discussed in more detail (Sections 2.3–2.9) and those which will only be mentioned, but not treated extensively (Section 2.8). In the second place, a brief summary of the most important aspects of membranes relating to synthesis methods will be given. This will serve as a guidehne in the more detailed treatment of particular synthesis methods. The field of inorganic membranes has attracted more attention in recent years and is now rapidly developing. This is reflected in the relatively large number of patents or patent applications in the last few years indicating a considerable, partly hidden, industrial activity. Furthermore, the number of reviews since 1987 have sharply increased, as is the attention inorganic membranes receive in an increasing number of symposia and conferences. Many papers have a preliminary character and most contributions have a strongly descriptive nature. A focus will be given on those fields and contributions where at least a certain couphng between synthesis and resulting microstructure has been shown.