Preparation of transparent monolithic methylsilsesquioxane (MSQ) aerogels via ambient pressure drying

Monolithic methylsilsesquioxane (MSQ) aerogels have been prepared from methyltrimethoxysilane (MTMS) via an ambient pressure drying (APD) method. Tetraethylammonium hydroxide (TEAH) was used to suppress macroscopic phase separation and accelerate the condensation reaction. The obtained hydrophobic MSQ aerogels are highly transparent and withstand exposure to aggressive media for extended periods of time. This novel anti-corrosion property can be further improved by chemical modification with POTS and PDTS.