Current and Future Possibilities of Sol-Gel Process

Abstract

The sol-gel method is, first of all, characterized by the low temperature processing. Since this method starts from solutions, the product is essentially nanomaterials. So far, various kinds of microstructures, including dense, porous, hybrid, amorphous, crystalline microstructures have been realized. Accordingly, sol-gel materials cover a wide range of functions, such as optical, electronic, mechanical, chemical and bio-functions. All these features are highlighted in this article. Finally, the future of the sol-gel method is discussed.

Keywords:

• Sol-gel method
• Microstructure
• Functions of sol-gel materials
• Nanomaterials
• Hybrids