Template synthesis of uniform 1D mesostructured silica materials and their arrays in anodic alumina membranes

Abstract

Taking control: One-dimensional mesostructured silica materials and their arrays are prepared in anodic alumina membranes. By adjusting the wettability of the alumina pore wall, nanofibers and nanotubes are prepared in a controlled way. The mesostructured silica morphology (see picture) can be adjusted by changing the surfactant concentration. Both the mesopores and the tubular cavities can be incorporated with functional materials, thus forming hierarchical nanocomposites.