Mesostructured Silica−Titania Mixed Oxide Thin Films

Abstract

Poly(ethylene glycol) containing surfactant molecules were modified with titanium alkoxides. These surfactants were used in the synthesis of mesostructured silica−titania mixed metal oxide thin films serving two different functions: (a) as a structure-directing agent and (b) as a moderator of the hydrolysis rate of the titanium alkoxide. The resulting amorphous material showed a well-ordered hexagonal mesostructure with titanium species present in a tetrahedral environment. Upon heat treatment above 500 °C, the amorphous structure converted into anatase and finally rutile.