Aluminosilicaaten

Aluminosilicaaten refers to a family of materials composed primarily of aluminum, silicon, and oxygen, forming networks similar to those found in aluminosilicates. The composition allows variable silicon-to-aluminum ratios and can occur in crystalline or amorphous forms, with structures ranging from framework solids to layered or glassy phases.

Structure and chemistry of aluminosilicaaten are based on AlO4 and SiO4 tetrahedra linked through shared oxygen atoms. Substituting Al3+ for Si4+ in the framework introduces negative charges that are balanced by extra-framework cations or protons, creating sites that influence acidity, ion exchange, and catalytic properties. The Si/Al ratio and the presence of framework versus extra-framework species determine physical properties such as porosity, acidity, and thermal stability.

Occurrence and synthesis: Natural aluminosilicate minerals, including clays, feldspars, and zeolite-like phases, provide natural examples of aluminosilicaaten. In the laboratory and industry, these materials are synthesized by hydrothermal crystallization, sol-gel processing, or high-temperature solid-state reactions, enabling control over structure, porosity, and chemical composition.

Properties: Depending on structure, aluminosilicaaten materials exhibit high thermal stability and mechanical strength, with tunable acidity and porosity in crystalline forms. Amorphous variants may show different optical and mechanical characteristics. Their versatility arises from the ability to tailor Si/Al ratio, framework type, and cation content.

Applications: They are investigated and utilized as catalysts and catalyst supports, adsorbents and ion-exchange materials, refractory ceramics, coatings, and components for environmental remediation and separation processes.

Safety: Fine powders can pose inhalation hazards, so standard laboratory safety practices should be followed when handling.

See also: Aluminosilicates, zeolites, silicates, clays, glass.