Design of functionalization and structural analysis of organically-modified siliceous oxides with periodic structures for the development of sorbents for hazardous substances

Abstract

In this review the preparation and adsorption phenomena specific to functionalized mesoporous silicas are discussed for designing the optimum structures of adsorbents for the removal of aqueous pollutants. The topics mainly described are control of spacing of functional groups on the surface, selective functionalization of characteristic sites in the mesostructure and the effects of mesopore confinement. Comparisons with synthetic pendant polymers and other organo-siliceous oxides in a periodic structure are performed in order to illustrate the adsorption features of functionalized silicas clearly.