Non-silica periodic mesostructured materials: recent progress

The discovery of M41S periodic mesoporous silicates in 1991–1992 based on the use of surfactant supramolecular templates had an immediate strong impact on the area of mesostructured inorganic materials. A variety of related synthesis strategies have been developed while a great diversity of materials in terms of both composition and structure has been achieved. This review deals with non-silica mesostructured materials. Supramolecular templating techniques based on electrostatic interactions (ionic bonding), van der Waals interactions (hydrogen bonding) and direct covalent bonding between organic and inorganic species are presented, discussed and evaluated. Important issues, particularly regarding thermal stability of the materials, have been identified for future research.