| abstract |
(57) [Summary]nThis relates to the general fields of gels, foams and aerosols, in particular to low-density open-cell organic foams and low-density open-cell carbon foams and to methods for preparing them. These low density open cell organic foams are derived from organogels, which are traditionally derived from hydroxylated benzenes (e.g., phenol, catechol, resorcinol, hydroquinone and phloroglucinol) and aldehydes (e.g., formaldehyde and furfural). It can be prepared using low catalyst concentrations, such as R / C values of greater than about 2000 (typically resulting in a pH of less than about 6.0 at initial room temperature). These organic foams are characterized by relatively large particle and pore size, high porosity and high surface area. Also shown are low density open cell carbon foams derived from such organic foams, and methods of preparing them. These carbon foams are also characterized by relatively large particle and pore size, high porosity, high surface area and high capacitance. Also shown are low density open cell carbon foam / carbon substrate composites and methods for preparing them. |