Multi-scale characterization of precipitated silica

In this study, we performed a multi-scale characterization of precipitated silica including small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS), analytical (ultra-) centrifugation as well as electron microscopy and pore size determination techniques. Information about the primary particles and their size distribution within the aggregate, the aggregate size and its fractal dimension, as well as mesoscopic bulk properties, e.g. porosity and sediment structure analysis, were put into context. The data obtained here allow a statement to be made about the number of primary particles per aggregate and the aggregate structure including pore size distribution and pore inlet diameter. The correlation of the obtained measurement data with mathematical models allows a deeper understanding of the structure and description of fractal aggregates.