Abstract
The University of Central Florida invention is a carbon nanotube (CNT) aerogel structure that integrates the properties of CNT materials with the highly porous structure of aerogels. Useful in many applications, the invention offers low bulk density, a large specific surface area, and high electrical conductivity. Applications include sensors, catalyst supports, electrodes for supercapacitors, and low-temperature fuel cells. Compared to conventionally produced CNT aerogels, the UCF invention provides easier fabrication methods and enables the development of mechanically strong, free-standing monoliths.
Technical Details
The UCF invention comprises a mechanically strong, ultralight, multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) aerogel and methods for fabricating it. An aerogel includes supramolecular structures bound to one another. Each supramolecular structure consists of a CNT or graphene-type structure with an outer surface, multiple polymers, or aromatic molecules secured to the surface. Polymers or aromatic molecules have at least one cross-linkable structure. The supramolecular structures are crosslinked together by chemical bonding between the cross-linkable structures. Aerogels can be reversely compressed down to less than 20 percent of their original volume. They have a density <500 mg/cm3 and can provide unique properties. For example, free-standing monolithic polymer/CNT or graphene-based aerogels can provide a surface area ?300 m2/g, a density <15 mg/cm3, and a 25 C electrical conductivity ?1×10-4 S/cm. The 25 C electrical conductivity can be increased to ?0.1 S·cm-1 by a high-current pulse method.
Benefit
Significant improvement in density, porosity, mechanical strengthHigh electrical conductivityNo need for additional polymer comprising PVA to reinforce the structureMarket Application
Chemical sensors and pressure sensorsCatalyst supportsElectrodes for supercapacitorsLow-temperature fuel cells
Brochure
