ClO₂-Loaded Aerogels with Biocide Effect

In this work, the mechanism of chlorine dioxide's (ClO₂) interaction with aerogel surfaces is described for the first time. To determine the mechanism, three types of aerogels (namely, silica, titania, and zirconia composites) were synthesized and characterized using N₂ sorption isotherm analysis, X-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The kinetics of the ClO₂ interaction mechanism was investigated via ClO₂-controlled sorption and desorption at different temperatures. The process was studied through the theoretical calculation of ClO₂ interaction with the aerogel surface. The biocide efficiency of the as-synthesized ClO₂-loaded aerogels on different bacteria strains was investigated, and efficient microorganism extermination was demonstrated. This system is a disinfectant that can find potential applications in various fields.