Static and dynamic light scattering from solutions and gels of R/F particles and organosilane polymers

In this study we have investigated two quite different gelling systems: 1) a non-reversible gel formed by covalent cross-linking of resorcinol formaldehyde (R/F) particles in water, and 2) a thermally reversible gel formed by cooling solutions of poly(di-n-pentylsilane) (PDNPS) in toluene. Preparation and initial studies of the R/F gels have been previously reported. The aqueous R/F gels are precursors to organic aerogels prepared by exchanging the water for CO2 and removing the CO2 under supercritical conditions.