SBA15

SBA-15 is a mesoporous silica material with a hexagonal array of uniform mesopores. It was first synthesized by researchers at the University of South Carolina in 2000. The material is characterized by a high surface area, large pore volume, and tunable pore size, typically ranging from 2 to 10 nanometers. Its structure is templated by block copolymers, which are later removed through calcination, leaving behind the porous silica framework.

The synthesis of SBA-15 involves the use of a non-ionic triblock copolymer surfactant, such as Pluronic P123 or F127, as a structure-directing agent. This is combined with a silica precursor, like tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), in an acidic aqueous solution. After self-assembly of the surfactant and silica precursor, the resulting gel is aged, followed by filtration and calcination to remove the organic template and form the porous silica.

SBA-15 exhibits excellent thermal and hydrothermal stability, making it suitable for a variety of applications. Its high surface area and tunable pore structure allow for efficient adsorption and catalytic activity. It has been explored for use in catalysis, drug delivery, gas adsorption, and as a support material for various functional species. Modifications to the synthesis process can lead to different pore sizes, morphologies, and surface properties, further expanding its potential applications.