Lignin to Carbon Foams

Date:Apr 18 2022

Application

• The lignin-derived carbon foam has applications in energy storage devices, such as batteries and supercapacitors, due to its conductivity and porosity. Additionally, it is used in environmental purification, lightweight structural materials, electronics, and as a catalyst support in various chemical processes.

Description

This project presents a novel method to directly convert lignin into carbon foam using a simple, additive-free process without the need for additional pressure. By heating lignin powder, the researchers were able to produce carbon foam with a porous structure and high strength, offering an innovative approach to lignin valorization. The technique, tested on various industrial lignins, provides a cost-effective and scalable solution for producing high-value carbon products. This carbon foam can be used in applications requiring conductivity, stability, and lightweight properties.

 

 

Pathway Description:

The process used in this project involves fractionating lignin and heating it at controlled temperatures to induce crosslinking and foaming without the use of additives or external pressure. This thermal treatment causes the lignin to form a porous carbon foam with a monolithic structure. The temperature profile is carefully controlled to avoid early fusing of lignin, ensuring the formation of carbon foam with desirable properties such as high strength, low density, and stability.