Recent strategies for enhancing the performance and lifespan of low-cost ceramic membranes in water filtration and treatment processes: A review

Ceramic membranes, well-known for their high stability and resistance, are crucial in water filtration and treatment applications. However, they encounter challenges related to fabrication costs and operational lifespan. This review summarizes efforts to use low-cost ceramic materials, primarily those abundant in alumina (Al2O3) and silica (SiO2), as alternatives to overcome cost barriers. While these materials exhibit promising separation properties, their commercial viability is hindered by short lifespans and structural defects. Researchers have responded with multifaceted strategies to enhance the performance and durability of low-cost ceramic membranes. The article systematically delineates strategies to improve ceramic membranes, emphasizing increased ceramic content in low-cost materials. This approach enhances thermal and chemical stability, which is crucial for effective water treatment while boosting porosity, water flow, and filtration capacity. The review explores strategies to eliminate fouling and wetting resistance, including hierarchical structures, air pocket enhancement, and surface functionalization. Each technique presents distinct advantages and challenges, necessitating careful tailoring to specific application requirements. Durability is further addressed through two primary strategies, namely incorporating micro/nanomaterials and fabricating dual-layer ceramic membranes. While offering increased mechanical strength and separation performance, these methods pose challenges regarding material incorporation complexity and potential cost escalation. Achieving a balance between advantages and drawbacks is crucial for practical water filtration and treatment processes. In addition, the current study has explored the potential of strategies to enhance low-cost ceramic membranes, making them more competitive in water filtration and treatment processes.