Field-Induced alignment controls of one-dimensional mesochannels in mesoporous materials

Mesoporous materials prepared through the self-assembly of surfactants have attracted wide attention because of their many potential applications. The mesostructural, compositional, and morphological controls of mesoporous materials have been extensively studied thus far. In particular, the macroscopic alignments of one-dimensional (1D) mesochannels and their controls are quite important for the creation of advanced functional materials. In most cases, the direction of mesochannels in mesoporous films lies parallel to the substrate. Vertical orientation of the mesochannels can realize high diffusion and accessibility of guest species from the outside. Here, I review the recent progress on this emerging research field. Various methods have been proposed for the preparation of vertically oriented mesoporous thin films using high magnetic field, shear flow, modification of the substrate, and other methods. I also briefly introduce their applications and a perspective for the future. (C)2013 The Ceramic Society of Japan. All rights reserved.