Gel structure is depicted as a hierarchy at several levels by means of
models using the Monte-Carlo technique, on the basis of random close
packing (RCP) premises. The pore volume distributions are calculated f
rom the largest sphere radius inscribed within the interstices. These
distributions are compared to the pore volume distributions of classic
models and to pore volume distributions of a series of aerogels measu
red by means of the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) and Hg intrusion meth
ods. Data on the pore volumes associated with micro-, meso-, or macrop
ores were obtained. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved
.