Abstract: A ceramic foam having pores in the range of 20 to 800 microns and 10 to 30 % of theoretical density is placed in a preheated mould and molten metal or plastics is drawn in to form a bicomposite structure.

Abstract: A method of treating a process stream by catalysis, which method comprises passing the process stream through a chemical reactor containing catalytic material and including the step of passing the process stream through a layer of filter material located in the reactor, the layer comprising shaped porous bodies of ceramic material, the porosity being from about 65% to about 90%, the pores being defined by struts and windows

Abstract: An aqueous dispersion of ceramic particles and containing a polymerisable monomer was foamed before polymerisation, e.g., using a catalyst and initiator, was started.

Abstract: A dispersion is made up of water refractory particles and material for forming pores and a polymeric dispersion. A water sensitive destabilising agent is added to increase the viscosity of the mix and cause it to solidify to form a green body which is removed from a mould and then heated and sintered.

Abstract: A moldable ceramic composition is made by forming the suspension of electrically charged ceramic particles and then coagulating.

Abstract: A gas generating substance is added to an aqueous dispersion containing refractory particles and a polymerizable monomer and the pressure and/or temperature are adjusted so that the substance generates the gas before the polymerization gets underway; to control the formation of pores.

Abstract: A method of making a porous refractory article and a dispersion of particles in a liquid carrier, the method involving forming a dispersion of particles in a liquid carrier, introducing gas into the dispersion, removing the liquid carrier to provide a solid article having pores derived from the bubbles and wherein the dispersion has a critical viscosity below the level at which the introduction of gas cannot take place and above the level which entrapped gas bubbles will tend to escape and with the dispersion having the same critical viscosity.