Mesostructured gamma-Al2O3 with a lathlike framework morphology

A novel three-step assembly pathway is reported for the formation of a mesostructured alumina with framework pore walls made of crystalline, lathlike gamma-Al203 nanoparticles. The high surface areas (300-350 m2/g) and pore volumes (0.45-0.75 cm3/g) provided by these mesostructured forms of gamma-Al203 are useful in materials and catalytic applications where the availability of surface Lewis acid sites and the dispersion of supported metal centers govern reactivity.