One step synthesis of organofunctionalized transition metal containing meso- and macroporous silica spheres

Hydrophobic mesoporous silica spheres containing transition metals coordinatively bound to aminosilane groups are synthesized in a one-step procedure from functionalized silicon alkoxides. In situ IR spectroscopy shows the presence of amino groups in the solid. These amino groups are critical to bind transition metals such as Co, Cu, Fe, Mn or V by complexation. The accessibility of the transition metals is shown by IR spectra of adsorbed CO. The method described provides a scalable approach to synthesize tailored transition metal containing structured micro and mesoporous organofunctionalized silica spheres, which show great potential for catalytic applications.

Graphical abstractHydrophobic polysiloxane spheres in the millimeter range have been successfully synthesized from silicon alkoxide precursors. Via amino functions transition metal cations are coordinated to the support for potential catalytic applications.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► One step synthesis of macroscopic transition metal polysiloxane beads. ► Management of surface hydrophobicity by variation of precursors. ► Accessible transition metals show great potential for catalytic applications.