Some studies on the surface modification of sol-gel derived hydrophilic Silica nanoparticles

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In the present investigation surface modification of silica nanoparticles by alumina was carried out by sol-gel process. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) confirmed the synthesis of silica and the surface modification as alumina is anchored to silica surface. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) investigations observed that alumina doping affected significantly the morphology, particle size distribution and surface area of the synthesized nanoparticles. From N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms studies it was further noted that alumina doping improved the pore volumes of the synthesized silica nanoparticles and the synthesized silica alumina nanoparticles are mesoporous materials. The hydrophobicity test and thermal stability results confirmed the modification and conversion of silica to hydrophobic materials using alumina.