<p>This study presents the development and optimization of multilayer porous ceramic membranes for microfiltration, using kaolin as both the functional microfiltration (MF) layer and the macroporous support. A common challenge with tubular supports made from extruded raw kaolin is deformation during drying. To overcome this, kaolin calcination was investigated as a processing strategy. Pre-calcination prior to shaping significantly reduced shrinkage and deformation, thereby improving the structural integrity of the supports. The calcination temperature was found to be a key parameter, influencing support quality and pore characteristics. For instance, calcined kaolin supports (S4) exhibited a porosity of about 52% and an average pore size of around 4.1&#xa0;μm, compared with 46% and 1.4&#xa0;μm for uncalcined ones (S3), under identical sintering conditions. Furthermore, the effect of sintering temperature on porosity, pore size distribution, and mechanical strength was systematically examined. The fabricated MF membranes exhibited an average pore size of ~ 0.5&#xa0;μm. Filtration tests with distilled water demonstrated their suitability for tangential microfiltration applications, with permeability values reaching approximately 680 Lh^− 1m⁻²bar ^− 1 for membranes based on calcined supports (M2), compared to about 140 Lh^− 1m⁻²bar ^− 1 for those based on uncalcined ones (M1).</p>