Fast production of silica aerogel using methyltrimethoxysilane by ambient drying process for superior chemical adsorption properties

Nanoscale silica aerogels have a large surface area, low density, high porosity, and poor electrical and thermal conductivity. Sol-gel involves supercritical drying of wet silica gels to make silica aerogels that limit synthesis due to efficiency and costs. Ambient pressure drying utilizing methyltrimethoxysilane as a precursor is expected to increase commercially. The method produces silica aerogels with a very low bulk density and a high specific surface area of 0.083 g/cm(3) and 787 m(2)/g, respectively, with an average pore diameter of 18.7 nm at a MeOH/MTMS molar ratio of 1::35. This aerogel has contact angle as high as 153 degrees and exhibits remarkable chemical absorption (5-11 times) and recyclability for substances such as organic liquids and oils.

Automated summary

Nanoscale silica aerogels have unique properties such as large surface area, low density, and high porosity, but limited electrical and thermal conductivity. Sol-gel method for synthesis is not efficient and costly, while ambient pressure drying method using methyltrimethoxysilane shows potential for commercialization. This method produces silica aerogels with extremely low bulk density and high specific surface area, exhibiting excellent chemical absorption and recyclability for substances like organic liquids and oils.