PNNL

Abstract

We have synthesized layered surfactant-silicate mesophase composites using surfactant-templated synthetic routes under hydrothermal conditions and demonstrated a molecular ordering process that drives self-assembly. Local molecular ordering in both the bound surfactant and the inorganic framework for these mesophase composites has been observed and investigated using solid-state NMR and x-ray diffraction techniques. Synthesis parameters were systematically varied in order to determine the key factors that influence the molecular ordering process. Dynamics and mobility of surfactant molecules at the interface have also been examined using NMR chemical-shift analyses, relaxation time studies, and 2D WISE measurements. Results from this current work are compared with studies reported on other surfactant-silicate mesoporous materials.