The effects of pore structures on the air permeation properties of sintered diatomite

In this study, we discussed the pore structure-property relationships by comparing the pore characteristics and air permeation properties of sintered diatomite specimens, with the same densities, prepared by the particle-stabilized direct foaming method and by the sacrificial polymer template method. Although the porous matrix, induced by irregular diatomite particles, of sintered diatomite specimens provided the paths of air permeation, the air permeation properties of the sintered diatomite specimen not only depended on the effective volume for air to pass through, but also on the pore structure. The pore characteristics of the diatomite specimens were investigated by scanning electron micrographs, mercury porosimetry, and capillary flow porosimetry.