What are the Key Components in the Stöber Process?
The main components in the Stöber Process are:
1. Tetraethyl Orthosilicate (TEOS): This is the silicon precursor that undergoes hydrolysis and condensation to form silica nanoparticles. 2. Alcohol (usually ethanol): Acts as a solvent to facilitate the reactions. 3. Water: Essential for the hydrolysis of TEOS. 4. Ammonia: Serves as a catalyst to accelerate the hydrolysis and condensation reactions.