Mesoporous silicas via organic-inorganic hybrids based on charged polymers

A range of polyviologens synthesised by the Menshutkin reaction have been successfully incorporated into silica hybrids using the hydrolytic sol-gel route. Hybrids were calcined at 650degreesC to remove the polymer, forming porous amorphous silica products. Nitrogen adsorption-desorption studies have been undertaken on the hybrids and the calcination products. The hybrid porosities depend on the polymer content and type and the nature of the counter-ion. Calcination leads to silicas whose porosity depends on the nature and concentration of the polyviologen (PV) used. A significant effect of the counter-ion has been noted in these systems.