This project will explore the fundamental science that underpins a new aerogel processing scheme conducted at ambient pressure. The two objectives are (1) to develop a more complete understanding of the surface chemistry that is so important to a recently patented process referred to as the DSB(Deshpande, Smith, and Brinker) process, and (2) to extend that processing chemistry beyond silica, which is the focus of the DSB process, to three other metal oxide systems of technological importance, viz., titania, vanadia, and alumina. Various derivitization chemistries will be applied to each of the three new oxide systems which will then be characterized using a variety of techniques that include nuclear magnetic resonance, Raman and infrared spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. %%% New materials that can be successfully converted to the aerogel state may have high relevance to technological applications areas: titania is a photocatalyst that can be used to mitigate by photodegradation the effects of water pollution; vanadia is a potential cathode material that may optimize the performance of lithium electrolyte batteries; and alumina has uses in catalytic converter applications. Each new aerogel material to be evaluated will involve the training of students in technology areas that are currently of high value to industry.
