Abstract
Mesoporous oxide thin films with a mixed silica/zirconia framework were reproducibly synthesised for the first time by a two-step dip-coating method. Different synthesis strategies were developed for the Si-rich and Zr-rich regions. These optical quality films are highly organised and oriented, stable, and exhibit amorphous mixed frameworks presenting good dispersion of both cations at the molecular level. Si inclusion in zirconia matrices modifies the inorganic network, improving the thermal stability of the mesostructure. A ‘library’ of varied compositions [0 ≤ fSi = [Si]/([Si] + [Zr]) ≤ 0.3; 0.7 ≤ fSi = [Si]/([Si] + [Zr]) ≤ 1] and tunable mesostructures (cubic Im3m, 2D-hexagonal p6m, local hexagonal, lamellar) has been established with F127, P123 and Brij 58 as templates, opening the way to using different PEO-based polymers to fine-tune the pore sizes.
Published Version
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 call