Resorcinol-Formaldehyde-Derived Carbon Xerogels: Preparation, Functionalization, and Application Aspects

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Physical Chemistry

Background:

• Carbon xerogels (CXs) are synthesized via sol-gel polycondensation of resorcinol and formaldehyde, followed by pyrolysis.
• CXs are versatile materials with applications in adsorption, catalysis, and energy storage.
• Their structural and textural properties can be precisely controlled by adjusting synthesis parameters.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the synthesis processes of carbon xerogels, focusing on the sol-gel polycondensation stage.
• To explore methods for tailoring CXs' structure, texture, and surface properties.
• To examine the preparation of functionalized and metal-doped CXs for advanced applications.

Main Methods:

• Sol-gel polycondensation of resorcinol and formaldehyde under varying conditions (pH, precursor ratios, modifiers).
• Gel drying and pyrolysis techniques.
• Surface modification via incorporation of heteroatoms (N, S, B, P) and metal doping (Fe, Ni, Co).

Main Results:

• Synthesis conditions significantly influence CXs' pore size distribution (2-200 nm).
• Surface modification with nitrogen yielded high atomic percentages (6-11 at%).
• Iron subgroup metals catalyze graphitization, potentially enhancing electrochemical performance.

Conclusions:

• Carbon xerogels offer tunable properties for diverse applications.
• Surface functionalization and metal doping are effective strategies for property enhancement.
• CXs show promise in Li-ion batteries, supercapacitors, fuel cells, and as adsorbents.