Molecular Architecture and its role in Silica Sol-Gel Polymerization

Abstract

ABSTRACTSol-gel polymerization of [Si8O12](OCH3)8 in CH3CN under neutral conditions yields very high surface area (SBET > 900 m2/g) xerogels. This property is seen to result from the structure of the gel on the molecular level. According to N2 adsorption studies, model studies, and TEM studies, the large size and rigidity of the cubic [Si8O12] core structure leads to polymers whose rigidity inhibits extensive crosslinking of the type observed in orthosilicate derived xerogels.