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Updated: Nov 10, 2025

Preparing Silica Aerogel Monoliths via a Rapid Supercritical Extraction Method
Published on: February 28, 2014
Silica Monolith for the Removal of Pollutants from Gas and Aqueous Phases
Vanessa Miglio1,2, Chiara Zaccone1,2, Chiara Vittoni1,2
1Department of Sciences and Technological Innovation and Interdisciplinary Nano-SiSTeMI Centre, University of Eastern Piedmont A. Avogadro, Viale T. Michel 11, 15121 Alessandria, Italy.
Abstract:
This study focused on the application of mesoporous silica monoliths for the removal of organic pollutants. The physico-chemical textural and surface properties of the monoliths were investigated. The homogeneity of the textural properties along the entire length of the monoliths was assessed, as well as the reproducibility of the synthesis method. The adsorption properties of the monoliths for gaseous toluene, as a model of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), were evaluated and compared to those of a reference meso-structured silica powder (MCM-41) of commercial origin. Silica monoliths adsorbed comparable amounts of toluene with respect to MCM-41, with better performances at low pressure. Finally, considering their potential application in water phase, the adsorption properties of monoliths toward Rhodamine B, selected as a model molecule of water soluble pollutants, were studied together with their stability in water. After 24 h of contact, the silica monoliths were able to adsorb up to the 70% of 1.5 × 10-2 mM Rhodamine B in water solution.
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