One-Step Synthesis of Structurally Controlled Silicate Particles from Sodium Silicates using a Simple Precipitation Process

• Published in: Langmuir 2010-04, Vol.26 (8), p.5456-5461
• Main Authors: Jung, Chan Yoon, Kim, Jung Soo, Chang, Tae Sun, Kim, Sun Teak, Lim, Hyung Jun, Koo, Sang Man
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Colloids: Surfactants and Self-Assembly, Dispersions, Emulsions, Foams
• ISSN: 0743-7463; 1520-5827
• DOI: 10.1021/la904572y

Silicate particles with various types of internal structures were prepared via one-pot synthesis. Spherical particles with sizes of 50−100 nm could be obtained by a simple precipitation process with the addition of alcohol to an aqueous sodium silicate solution. By controlling the reaction conditions such as the preciptating solvent (different types of alcohols), reaction time, temperature, and addition rate, spherical silicate particles with hollow, porous, dense internal structures were synthesized without using an external template. In addition, the amount of Na in the silicate particles was effectively reduced by washing with hot water, acid, or ion-exchange resins. Spherical particles maintained their morphologies after heat treatment at 500 °C. Electron microscopy, N2 adsorption/desorption measurements, ICP-OES, XRD analysis, and IR and 29Si NMR spectrometry were performed to elucidate the chemical and physical properties of the obtained silicate paticles. This method of synthesis could provide a commercial route to the simple, economical mass production of silica particles.