Mechanically robust mesoporous solids by dual-mode supramolecular self-assembly

Key Points

• The aim is to synthesize centimeter-scale mesoporous silica monoliths with high mechanical stability and permeability.
• Synthesized mesoporous silica monoliths using cooperative and evaporation-induced self-assembly.
• Applied high-pressure compaction in the fabrication process.
• Achieved a surface area exceeding 270 m2/g from a continuous SBA-16 cubic mesoporous matrix.
• Monoliths exhibited excellent mechanical stability comparable to sedimentary rocks.
• Achieved a low density of ~1.1 g/cm3 with high permeability.