Assembly of Functional Porous Solids in Complex Hybrid Composites

摘要

Three-dimensionally ordered macroporous (3DOM) materials with periodic arrays of solid walls possess interesting optical, photonic and reactive properties of interest for camouflage, sensing, sorption, and controlled release. These materials are prepared by colloidal crystal templating techniques. This project was aimed at developing methods for functionalizing 3DOM solids, improving their processibility into shaped structures, forming polymer composites with 3DOM solids, optimizing their optical properties, and evaluating their mechanical properties. Methods were developed for preparing 3DOM oxides and hybrid materials as particles on a multiple gram scale, as supported films, monoliths, and composites with polymers and binders. 3DOM oxides were functionalized with monomeric and polymeric surface groups and with inorganic nanoparticles. 3DOM particles were optimized for optical effects, including tunable colors and control of color intensity. The mechanical properties of the highly porous materials were evaluated by depth sensing indentation, and a parameter was described that allows comparison of mechanical strengths of these materials. Combinations of templating and surface modification methods permitted the preparation of multifunctional systems that combined optical effects with sorption and photocatalytic properties. Other applications that were investigated included adsorption of toxic heavy metals, reactivity of bioactive glass compositions, and a bifunctional catalyst system.