Missouri State University1, Physics, Astronomy, and Material Science, Springfield, MO 65897 Missouri State2, Physics, Astronomy, and Material Science, Springfield, MO 65897 Lehigh University3, Department of Chemistry, Bethlehem, PA 18015
Modifying the physical and chemical properties of mesoporous silica by the adsorption or surface-doping of metal ions, such as Fe3+, under hydrothermal conditions has potential applications in the energy and chemical industry. We are investigating the reactivity of metal ions with mesoporous silica under high temperatures and pressures in aqueous fluids. A reactor vessel built out of Hastelloy C-276 material is used for the purpose of hydrothermal treatment of mesoporous silica with metal solute-bearing aqueous solutions. High resolution TEM shows that the mesopores in the amorphous silica particles have an average size of approximately 20 nanometers. Using our hydrothermal reactor and aqueous solutions heated to 370 °C, we have successfully doped mesoporous silica with Fe3+ ions. We discuss characterization of doped mesoporous silica using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy.
[Abstract (DOCX)]