Aero-Sol−Gel Synthesis of Nanostructured Silica Powders

Abstract

Nanostructured silica powders are synthesized by a nonpyrolytic, room-temperature aero-sol−gel process. Hydrolysis and condensation of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) and tetramethoxysilane (TMOS) precursors produce nanosized silica powders that have specific surface areas greater than 400 m2/g. This paper reports on a novel synthetic approach and characterization of the morphology, particle growth process, surface area, and chemical composition using small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), N2 adsorption, and elemental analysis. Structural models for the morphology and growth process of the silica particles are suggested. The effects of reactant temperature and powder sintering on the specific surface area of silica are discussed.