Toward functional clathrasils: Size- and composition-controlled octadecasil nanocrystals by desilication

Nanosized octadecasil crystals with tunable size and variable Si/Al ratio have been synthesized by controlled desilication of the parent clathrasil in alkaline medium. Extremely small (10-25 nm) nanocrystals with high external surface area (200 m2 g-1) and preserved crystallinity were attained (see picture). This result widens the scope of this class of materials, opening room for catalytic applications.

(Hot Paper & Cover)