Modification of molecular sieves MCM-41 and SBA-15 with covalently grafted pyromellitimide and 1,4,5,8-naphthalenediimide

► Mesoporous silicates MCM-41 and SBA-15 were grafted with aromatic imides. ► The imides employed were pyromellitimides and 1,4,5,8-naphthalenediimides. ► The new materials presented interesting absorption and emission properties.