Vapour phase functionalization without degradation of the framework structure of periodic ordered mesoporous ethylenesilica

We propose a new method for the functionalization of periodic ordered mesoporous ethylenesilica (MES) with amine functions but without significant damage to the framework structure. Brominated MES was successfully functionalized in the vapour of diethylenetriamine (DETA) and toluene, which provided a periodic mesoporous structure very similar to the original MES. In contrast, the liquid phase functionalization with DETA in toluene resulted in a disappearance of XRD peaks.