Article, Influence of initial pH on the ultrasonic synthesis of nanosilica from liquid glass
The ultrasonic synthesis of nanosilica from liquid glass
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65273/hhit.jna.2025.1.1.43-52Keywords:
Liquid glass precursors, nanosilica, particle size, polysilicate condensation, ultrasound methodsAbstract
This study investigates the influence of initial potential of hydrogen (pH) on the formation and particle size of nanosilica synthesized from liquid glass (LG) via an ultrasonic assisted method. Nanosilica samples were prepared at pH values of 1, 2, 4, and 6, while maintaining a constant precursor-to-solvent ratio (LG/H₂O=1:2), ultrasonic power of 30 W, sonication time of 15 min, and stirring speed of 500 rpm. Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and particle size distribution analyses revealed a broad particle size range from 15 nm to 400 nm. At pH=2, relatively small particles with a narrow size distribution (~15–20 nm) were obtained, whereas higher pH values (4 and 6) yielded larger particles ranging from 100 to 400 nm. At pH=1, pronounced agglomeration led to irregular particle clusters. These observations were interpreted in terms of the hydrolysis and condensation equilibria of polysilicates under acidic conditions, as well as the steady-state energy dynamics governing particle formation. The findings indicate that pH=2 represents the optimal condition for synthesizing nanosilica from LG, offering a controlled approach to tailoring particle morphology and size. The synthesized nanosilica demonstrates potential applicability in the adsorption of oil-contaminated wastewater.
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