Résumé
Our group works on methodological development to analyze small-angle scattering data of complex soft matter systems. This talk will be focused on mesoporous materials, which are crucial for catalytic and ionic conductive membranes. A deep understanding of their molecular structure is necessary to optimize macroscopic properties, particularly ionic transport for energy applications. Our materials are based on a new hydrolytic synthesis method for mesoporous ionosilica films templated by ionic liquids. A quantitative model was developed to describe SAXS intensities of cylindrical mesopores, integrating radial polydispersity derived from nitrogen adsorption isotherms, thereby offering a comprehensive view of mesopore geometry. Additionally, the incorporation of poly(ionic liquid)s was explored to improve mechanical flexibility. SAXS and SANS measurements revealed a surprising molecular structure, with ionic liquid counterions penetrating the ionosilica matrix surrounding the pores. The poly(ionic liquid) forms patches decorating the pore walls, adopting a tunable conformation sensitive to solvent conditions.