Mesoporous and biocompatible surface active silica aerogel synthesis using choline formate ionic liquid

In this paper, we report the preparation and characterization of mesoporous and biocompatible transparent silica aerogel by the sol–gel polymerization of tetraethyl orthosilicate using ionic liquid. Choline cation based ionic liquid allows the silica framework to form in a non collapsing environment and controls the pore size of the gel. FT-IR spectra reveal the interaction of ionic liquid with surface –OH of the gel. DSC thermogram giving the evidence of confinement of ionic liquid within the silica matrix, which helps to avoid the shrinkage of the gel during the aging process. Nitrogen sorption measurements of gel prepared with ionic liquid exhibit a low surface area of 100.53 m2/g and high average pore size of 3.74 nm. MTT assay proves the biocompatibility and cell viability of the prepared gels. This new nanoporous silica material can be applied to immobilize biological molecules, which may retain their stability over a longer period.

The use of choline based ionic liquid to sol–gel system, allows the silica framework to form in a non collapsing environment and avoids the shrinkage of the gel. Presence of ionic liquid in silica mesoporous materials enhanced the cell viability and proliferation. This sol–gel could be applied to immobilize biological molecules and respond to the external analytes.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► The preparation of silica aerogel by the sol–gel polymerization process of tetraethylorthosilicate using a biocompatible choline formate ionic liquid.
► For the first time, we report the choline based ionic liquid used to the sol–gel system.
► Ionic liquids could be used to stabilize and solubilize biomolecules such as proteins, enzymes, etc.; so these aerogels could be used to encapsulate biomolecules.
► Choline ionic liquids have plastic crystalline behavior; these sol–gel systems can give better performance in electrochemical devices.