One-step template-directed synthesis of multifunctionalised nanoporous silica: on the way to interactive nanomaterials

The preparation of multifunctional mesoporous silica containing a NLO chromophore in the framework ( bridged azobenzene phosphonium salts) and mercaptopropyl groups able to stabilize gold( 0) nanoparticles in the channel pores was achieved in one step by using the direct liquid crystal templating approach.