Gels (Jul 2024)

Effect of Sol–Gel Silica Matrices on the Chemical Properties of Adsorbed/Entrapped Compounds

  • Ariela Burg,
  • Krishna K. Yadav,
  • Dan Meyerstein,
  • Haya Kornweitz,
  • Dror Shamir,
  • Yael Albo

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/gels10070441
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 10, no. 7
p. 441

Abstract

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The sol–gel process enables the preparation of silica-based matrices with tailored composition and properties that can be used in a variety of applications, including catalysis, controlled release, sensors, separation, etc. Commonly, it is assumed that silica matrices prepared via the sol–gel synthesis route are “inert” and, therefore, do not affect the properties of the substrate or the catalyst. This short review points out that porous silica affects the properties of adsorbed/entrapped species and, in some cases, takes an active part in the reactions. The charged matrix affects the diffusion of ions, thus affecting catalytic and adsorption processes. Furthermore, recent results point out that ≡Si-O. radicals are long-lived and participate in redox processes. Thus, clearly, porous silica is not an inert matrix as commonly considered.

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