Sol-gel synthesis and properties of compositions containing heteropoly compounds in porous silica matrix

Compositions containing heteropoly compounds (ammonium phosphoromolybdate (APM) and phosphoromolybdenum acic (PMA)) are synthesized in a porous silica matrix using the sol-gel method. The obtained compositions containing 5-20 w/w % of APM and PMA are studied with the help of the X-ray-phase and differential-thermal analyses, IR and electron spectroscopy, and nitrogen adsorption. The APM and PMA maintain the Keggin structure after being introduced into an oxide matrix. The samples prepared by the sol-gel method have mesoporous and meso-macroporous structures and enhanced photocatalytic activity in comparison to the initial heteropoly compounds.