Modification and Characterization of Interfacial Properties of Self-Assembled Mesoporous Silicas

Kent State University, Kent OH

Investigators

Abstract

This research project, supported in the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, addresses the development of an effective methodology for the synthesis and characterization of ordered mesoporous silica materials. Surface functionalization of these materials, determination of type, bonding density, and uniformity of surface coverage of the surface functionalities, and the determination of the size of pore windows in these materials are the main objectives of this research. Characterization methods developed in this research have applicability to a broad range of high surface area materials, and are not limited to the mesoporous silica materials that are the focus of Professor Mietek Jaroniec's research at Kent State University. The development of methodologies for the determination of surface coverage and type of modifier is the focus of this research project supported in the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program. Synthesis of mesoporous modified silica materials, followed by characterization using the methodologies developed here, is the goal of the work. These methodologies will have wide applicability beyond the modified silicas that form the main topic of research.