Positron Porosimetry Studies of Template Removal from As-Synthesized MCM-41 Silica

The course of template removal from MCM-41 pores was investigated by positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy. Two methods of removal were the object of interest: a decarbonisation after standard calcination procedure and a novel procedure - pyrolysis in vacuum. The shapes of positron lifetime spectra of decarbonised sample are determined by positronium quenching caused by presence of carbon deposit on the surface. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy allows also monitoring the evolution of empty space inside pores. During pyrolysis no conductive carbon is produced, so consecutive stages of template material transformation are easy to observe. In the case of pyrolysis the effect of pore emptying is obtained at temperature 500 K, lower comparing to calcination and decarbonisation (820 K).