Sol-gel synthesis of zinc ferrite-based xerogel monoliths with well-defined macropores

Starting from an aqueous solution, porous zinc ferrite-based xerogel monoliths have been prepared via a sol-gel route accompanied by phase separation mediated by propylene oxide in the presence of poly(acrylamide). The xerogels possess well-defined macropores, and the macroporous morphologies could be easily controlled (macropore size ranges from 0.55 to 1.29 mu m) by simply changing the starting composition. As-dried xerogel samples were amorphous under X-ray diffraction, while heat-treatment in air brought about the formation of spinel type ferrite phase, ZnFe2O4. Calcination under Ar atmosphere allowed the crystallization of various iron-based phases/carbon composites (Fe3O4, Fe1-delta O, Fe3N, Fe4N, Fe3C, and Fe). Samples heated under Ar flow exhibited hierarchical pore structures, including continuous macropores, in addition to mesopores and micropores embedded in the carbon-containing composite matrices.