Detailed in situ XRD and calorimetric study of the formation of silicate/mixed surfactant mesophases under alkaline conditions. Influence of surfactant chain length and synthesis temperature

The formation of mesoscopically ordered silica/surfactant composites under alkaline synthesis conditions are analyzed by using time-resolved in situ small-angle X-ray diffraction with synchrotron radiation. The two-step mechanism is confirmed by a microcalorimetric study where the heat evolved during the hydrolysis-condensation reactions is followed as a function of time.