Synthesis of novel thiol-functionalized mesoporous silica nanorods and their sorbent properties on heavy metals

Abstract

Novel thiol-functionalized mesoporous silica nanorods (MSNRs) were synthesized through a base co-condensation method, in which two organoalkoxysilanes, tetraethoxylsilane (TEOS) and bis[3-(triethoxysilyl)propyl]tetrasulfide (TESPT), were used as silica precursors simultaneously. TESPT was firstly used for both morphology control and inner surface functionalization of mesoporous silica hybrid materials. The microstructures as well as porous character of the MSNRs were characterized by means of SEM, XRD, TEM and N₂ sorption measurements. Infrared spectrum analysis and heavy metal ions (Ag⁺ and Cd²⁺) adsorption measurements were carried out to confirm the functionalized framework of MSNRs.

Keywords

nanocomposite / porous material / morphology control / inner surface functionalization / sorbent