Synthesis and Characterization of Mesoporous Nanosilica Derived from Rice Husk Ash

Rice husk, an abundant agricultural byproduct, has garnered attention as a potential source of natural silica, a material with a myriad of applications. Natural silica is particularly attractive due to its low cost of production and safe handling. In this study, sodium silicate derived from rice husk ash was employed to create mesoporous nanosilica (MNS) via the sol-gel process. The extraction process commenced with the utilization of rice husk as a precursor for silica, capitalizing on its silica-rich composition. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis was performed to ascertain the presence of Si-O-Si bonds within the synthesized MNS. This critical step confirmed the successful formation of silica-based materials. Subsequently, X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis was employed, revealing a significant peak at 22 degrees, a clear indicator of the presence of crystalline silica. Examining the morphology of the MNS, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) results showcased a smooth surface and spherical morphology. Additionally, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) was employed, revealing the presence of nanoparticles smaller than 100 nanometers, which is indicative of the mesoporous nature of the synthesized nanosilica. Characterization techniques, including FTIR, XRD, FESEM, and HR-TEM, provided compelling evidence of successful nanosilica extraction. The findings underscore the potential of utilizing agricultural waste products for the sustainable production of valuable materials like nanosilica, which holds promise in various industrial applications. This research not only contributes to the valorization of agricultural residues but also aligns with the pursuit of eco-friendly and cost-effective materials for a wide range of applications.