Nanoporous silica is typically synthesized using a sol-gel process. This involves the hydrolysis and condensation of silica precursors, such as tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), in the presence of a structure-directing agent. The agent, often a surfactant, forms micelles that act as templates around which the silica network forms. After the formation of the silica framework, the surfactant is removed through calcination or solvent extraction, leaving behind a porous structure.
