Synthesis of silica gels and organic-inorganic hybrids on their base

The main regularities of the synthesis of monolithic SiO2 gels (nonfractured upon drying) are considered briefly. Most attention is focused on the xerogels prepared through hydrolysis and polycondensation of silicon alkoxides. The synthesis and structure of organic-inorganic hybrids are outlined using recent data available in the literature. The main fields of application of the materials prepared on their base are discussed.