Abstract: The present invention provides an all-ceramic diffuser assembly that includes a diffuser element formed of a porous ceramic material and a base formed of a non-porous ceramic material. The base includes a peripheral undercut shoulder portion that overlaps a perimeter edge of the diffuser element to sealingly connect the diffuser element to the base. A conduit is formed in a fitting portion of the base for directing a stream of gas or liquid that is capable of diffusing through the diffuser element into a chamber formed between an inner surface of the diffuser element and a floor portion of the base. The present invention also provides a method of forming the diffuser assembly.

Abstract: The present invention provides an all-ceramic diffuser assembly that includes a diffuser element formed of a porous ceramic material and a base formed of a non-permeable ceramic material. The base includes a peripheral undercut shoulder portion that overlaps a perimeter edge of the diffuser element to ceramically bond the diffuser element to the base. A conduit is formed in a fitting portion of the base for directing a stream of gas or liquid that is capable of diffusing through the diffuser element into a chamber formed between an inner surface of the diffuser element and a floor portion of the base. The present invention also provides a method of forming the diffuser assembly.

Abstract: A porous refractory product suitable for use in filtering high temperature combustion products. The product includes a matrix of recrystallized silicon carbide formed by heating a cast preform containing relatively coarse silicon carbide crystals selected to produce the desired permeability, and relatively fine silicon carbide crystals to a temperature of at least 2320° C. At this temperature, the relatively fine silicon carbide crystals sublime and condense on the relatively large crystals. This results in recrystallization of the cast preform to form the porous matrix with the desired permeability.

Abstract: A gas diffuser assembly adapted for location in a volume of liquid or semiliquid material for dispersing minute bubbles of gas into the liquid. The assembly includes a housing formed of dense impermeable ceramic material and which defines an upwardly facing recess. A fitting formed of an inert material is located in the floor of the recess for connection to a gas supply tube. A diffuser element formed of porous ceramic material is secured to the housing over the recess to define an enclosed gas chamber. The diffuser disk and the housing are adhered together with a suitable cement.