The
recent discovery of regular hexagonal mesoporous silicas (HMS) by the Mobil
group in 1992 has spawned a large research activity into the possible catalytic
and adsorptive properties of these materials. In unmodified form, HMS
materials are poor adsorbents with little adsorptive capacity and
selectivity. However, by suitable chemical modification and tethering, it
is possible to greatly enhance the adsorptive properties of these
materials. In this research project (in collaboration with Dr. Alan
Chaffee in the Department of Chemistry), we are exploring chemical modification
of MCM-41 to produce CO2 adsorbents and O2 adsorbents which are tolerant to
moisture and have comparable capacity to zeolitic materials.
For more information on this
project, contact Dr. Paul A.
Webley. This project is funded through the CRC for Greenhouse Gas
Technologies www.co2crc.com.au.