Decoupling particle formation from intraparticle ordering in mesostructured silica colloids

A synthesis methodology that decouples the formation of silica particles from their internal mesoordering has been developed. This was possible by employing synthesis conditions that combine fast nucleation and growth of particles with slow silica condensation. The synthesis developed is based on an inorganic silica source and the nonionic block copolymer Pluronic P123 using a synthesis pH of 3 and conditions that result in a stable colloidal suspension. Using a two-step procedure the particles can be first formed and then triggered into developing an ordered internal mesostructure by subsequent addition of silica or Pluronic. This is possible because under the conditions employed the particles are stabilized by relatively weak interactions before the formation of a stable silica network.

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► Novel two-step procedure synthesis.
► Decoupling the formation of silica particles from their internal mesoordering.
► Improving the understanding the formation mechanism of mesoporous materials.
► Inorganic silica source and mild conditions.