Applications of pore-expanded MCM-41 silica: 4. Synthesis of a highly active base catalyst

MCM-41 silica whose pores have been expanded by post-synthesis hydrothermal treatment in the presence of N,N-dimethyldecylamine exhibits a unique combination of large pores (up to 20 nm), pore volume (up to 3.5 cc/g) and surface area (>1000 m2/g). It was used to accommodate a large amount of amine groups (2.2 mmol/g); thus generating a highly active base catalyst for Knoevenagel condensation.