Preparation of porous silica spheres with self-dispersing properties

► Porous silica spheres were synthesized in a water/oil emulsion. ► Surface area and pore volume of the product could reach 772.3 m2/g and 0.663 cm3/g. ► Electrolyte washing process conferred self-dispersal properties to the product. ► Oil phase could be readily recycled to reduce chemical cost.