One-step template-directed synthesis of multifunctionalised nanoporous silica: on the way to interactive nanomaterials

The preparation of multifunctional mesoporous silica containing a NLO chromophore in the framework (bridged azobenzene phosphonium salts) and mercaptopropyl groups able to stabilize gold(0) nanoparticles in the channel pores was achieved in one step by using the direct liquid crystal templating approach.