Novel concepts for mciroporous hybrid silica membranes

The research presented in this thesis focuses on the functionalization and pore size tuning of microporous hybrid silica membranes for liquid separation. The research described covers hybrid silica materials properties, ranging from extremely hydrophilic up to hydrophobic porous materials. Alternative routes for directing the pore size in sol-gel membranes are covered. In addition, the application of these materials as membranes in aqueous and organophilic pervaporation, and solvent nanofiltration is described.