Hierarchically imprinted sorbents

A double imprinting methodology was developed to synthesize novel materials with hierarchical structures. On the microporous level(1-3 Angstrom), meta l ions served as template. On the mesoporous level (diameters of 25 - 40 An gstrom), micellar structures produced by self-assembly of surfactant molecu les were used as templates. Removal of both metal ions and surfactant micel les resulted in the formation of imprints with different sizes within the s ilica matrix, each with a specific function. This research opens vast oppor tunities for the applications of ordered mesoporous materials in the area o f molecular recognition such as separations, chemical sensors, and catalyst s.