Utilization of Alkoxysilyl Groups for the Creation of Structurally Controlled Siloxane-Based Nanomaterials

Silica-based materials have found many applications in various fields. Alkoxysilanes have been most widely used as precursors. Fine structural control of silica-based materials has become increasingly important for tuning their properties and for developing new functions. In this perspective, utilization of alkoxysilyl groups has been reviewed from the viewpoint of designing siloxane-based nanomaterials. Alkoxy groups have generally been used only as eliminating groups in the sol–gel processing; however, recent research has shown that they are useful for molecular assembly, for generating pores, for linking nanobuiliding blocks, and for selective synthesis of new oligosiloxane compounds.