Abstract
A brief review of the structure of alkoxide and colloidal silica gels is presented. Hydrolysis and polymerization reactions at pH < 8 result in the formation of interconnected, phase separated structures. One phase is a continuous three-dimensional network similar to that in silica glass, but with OH groups on the pore surfaces. The second phase is a water-alcohol solution in the pores. This structure is compared with Warren's structural scheme for Na 2OSiO 2 glasses. At higher pH silica is formed as particles. Gelation of colloidal silica in water is attributed to the formation of hydrogen bonds between OH groups on the surface and water. The pore structure of the two types of gels is considered and its effect on sintering to glass is discussed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
