Kinetic Features of Formation of Supramolecular Matrices on the Basis of Silica Monodisperse Spherical Particles

Abstract

We have established that under such conditions, when the formation of a supramolecular structure from spherical silica particles 220-320 nm in diameter is limited by the rate of introduction of particles into the sedimentation zone (sedimentation deposition in a constant cross section tube), the particle deposition rate, as well as the formation rate of the supramolecular structure, is strictly linear. At the same time, under conditions of excess of disperse phase in the zone of formation of the supramolecular structure (sedimentation deposition in a tube with a modified cross section), the deposition rate is also linear, but there is some delay in formation of the supramolecular structure in time, the larger the smaller is the particle size of the disperse phase. After the formation of the supramolecular structure is completed, a region with an increased concentration of the disperse phase remains, the height of which is greater, the smaller is the particle size. It is shown that a certain concentration of the disperse phase is necessary to begin the formation of a supramolecular structure, below which the formation of a supramolecularly ordered structure does not occur. The concentration of the disperse phase, necessary for beginning of formation of a supramolecular structure, is a constant value that does not vary with time and depends only on the size of the particles.