Handbook of Thermosetting Foams, Aerogels, and Hydrogels: From Fundamentals to Advanced Applications

Abstract

Carbon foams (CF) represent a distinctive class of materials distinguished by their unique combinations of physical and chemical properties that are unachievable with any other material. With the ability to synthesize CFs from polymeric precursors with tailored characteristic attributes, it has become possible for CFs to enter into different areas of applications in various industries, namely electronics, batteries, aerospace, automotive, chemical processing, and healthcare. Their versatility and customizability for specific applications achieved through careful choice of the precursors and preparation techniques has revolutionized the landscape of research and development in the field of CF. This chapter encompasses the preparation methods, specific properties, and applications of CFs synthesized from different polymeric precursors including various epoxy derivatives and lignin extracted from different sources. The different techniques used to characterize these unique materials are also discussed. © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.