Chapter 12, Problem 12.126SP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The reactions that occur in conversion of $\text{Si}{\left(\text{OH}\right)}_4$ sol into gel should be explained. Also, the chemical formula of ceramic that formed after gel is dried and sintered should be determined.

Concept introduction:

The sol-gel method is a process that is used to produce metal oxide powder from metal alkoxide. Alkoxide is alkyl derivative molecule of alcohol. In the sol-gel method, metal alkoxide dissolves in suitable organic solvent and then reacts with water to introduce hydrolysis reaction. In hydrolysis reaction, the metal-alkoxide bonds $\left(\text{M}-\text{OR}\right)$ get broke and metal-hydroxide $\left(\text{M}-\text{OH}\right)$ will form. This new product is known as sol.