Sol-gel synthesis and sorption properties of calcium monoaluminate

Abstract

Method for synthesis of calcium aluminate and sorbents based on this compound was developed on its basis of the sol-gel technology. The method makes it possible to obtain the target product with specific surface areas in the range from 7 to 120 m² g^–1. The compounds obtained were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray phase analysis, and X-ray fluorescence microanalysis. It was found that the main phase of the sorbents is rhombohedral calcium monoaluminate CaAl₂O₄. The method of Hammett indicator adsorption was used to determine the content of active centers on the surface of the sorbents and the distribution of these centers over ionization constants. It was shown that the surface characteristics of the sorbents depend on their synthesis method. The retention parameters, polarities, and thermodynamic characteristics were determined for organic compounds of various classes. The possibility of using calcium aluminate modified with sodium chloride for gas-chromatographic separation of aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons and carbonyl compounds was demonstrated.