Preparation of ordered porous NaCl and KCl crystals

Solids of NaCl (or KCI) containing macropores (similar to 380 nm in diameter) ordered in the face centered cubic manner were prepared by code-position of NaCl (or KCI) and organic colloids in water, followed by the removal of the polymer by calcination at 550 degrees C. These pore crystals showed the characteristics of an optically gapped material. The pores worked as a template to prepare submicrometer spheres of a liquid crystal, 5 OCB, and also a wax which are difficult to form spheres in usual conditions. (c) 2006 Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.