Preparation of mesoporous titania by surfactant-assisted sol–gel processing of acetaldoxime-modified titanium alkoxides

Sol–gel processing of acetaldoximate-modified titanium alkoxides in the presence of the non-ionic surfactants Pluronic F127 or Brij56 was investigated. Phase-purity, nanocrystal sizes, specific surface areas and pore diameters were compared with materials prepared under the same conditions with either oxime or surfactant. Concomitant use of both organic compounds turned out to give anatase with superior properties. Influence of surfactant proportion, calcination temperature and heating rate on the materials properties was investigated. X-ray diffraction experiments and small-angle scattering investigations allowed developing a clear understanding on how the structure develops during calcination and how the organic components influence the growth process.