Abstract
This study focused on the application of mesoporous silica monoliths for the removal of organic pollutants. The physico-chemical textural and surface properties of the monoliths were investigated. The homogeneity of the textural properties along the entire length of the monoliths was assessed, as well as the reproducibility of the synthesis method. The adsorption properties of the monoliths for gaseous toluene, as a model of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), were evaluated and compared to those of a reference meso-structured silica powder (MCM-41) of commercial origin. Silica monoliths adsorbed comparable amounts of toluene with respect to MCM-41, with better performances at low pressure. Finally, considering their potential application in water phase, the adsorption properties of monoliths toward Rhodamine B, selected as a model molecule of water soluble pollutants, were studied together with their stability in water. After 24 h of contact, the silica monoliths were able to adsorb up to the 70% of 1.5 × 10−2 mM Rhodamine B in water solution.
Highlights
In recent years, chemical industries have been focusing on sustainable development approaches, promoting products and services that offer performance at lower costs, reducing significantly the environmental impact and improving the quality of life.In connection to these approaches, mesoporous materials have been synthesized in the form of powder and extensively studied for various applications
This study focused on the application of mesoporous silica monoliths for the removal of organic pollutants
The toluene adsorption properties of different porous silicas have been recently reported by our group [16] and we have shown that the porous architecture of different silicas have an important effect on the final adsorption properties
Summary
Chemical industries have been focusing on sustainable development approaches, promoting products and services that offer performance at lower costs, reducing significantly the environmental impact and improving the quality of life. In connection to these approaches, mesoporous materials have been synthesized in the form of powder and extensively studied for various applications (i.e., catalysis, adsorption, etc.). It is often necessary to use one or different binders (such as methylcellulose) and to press the materials even under heating This multistep timeconsuming procedure could adversely affect the structure of mesoporous silica, causing performance alteration [2]. The formation of silica monolith can be a convenient way to fully exploit the structural and functional properties of the material [3] by saving, at the same time, both reactants and time, in that a single-step synthesis is required
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
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
