Surface functionalization of mesoporous antimony doped tin oxide by metalorganic reaction

Electrically conducting mesoporous antimony doped tin oxide was functionalized by the metalorganic reaction with several Grignard reagents. This fast and efficient grafting approach enables a direct connection of the metal atoms with the organic functionalities avoiding the formation of insulating Si–O linkers, which is of special interest for the interfacial charge transfer processes. Using this approach we introduced vinyl, allyl and phenyl groups into the pores of mesoporous ATO, which was confirmed by IR spectroscopy, TGA and nitrogen sorption measurements. We obtained a high loading of organic groups corresponding to about 50–60% of the monolayer surface coverage. The obtained mesoporous inorganic–organic hybrids can serve as a platform for incorporation of electrochemically active species.

► Grignard reactions are used for functionalization of porous conducting metal oxides. ► Organic groups are incorporated into the pores of antimony doped tin oxide (ATO). ► The presence of organic species inside the mesoporous ATO is confirmed by IR spectra. ► Decreased pore size and BET area indicate successful functionalization of mesoporous ATO. ► Grignard functionalization enables incorporation of a large amount of organic species.