Carbon-based foams: Preparation and applications

Low weight, high surface area, and versatility for various applications make carbonaceous foams one of the most widely investigated materials. In this chapter, the preparation and application of carbon-based foams is reviewed. The preparation method determines the final properties (pore size and type, structure, density, etc.) and their application. The addition of different elements such as dopants or the application of activation processes also directly affects the final structural and electrical properties of the produced foams. There are also novel approaches that help the transformation of nanomaterials, such as carbon nanofibers, carbon nanotubes, and graphene into carbon-based foams. Although carbon-based foams are most widely known as adsorbents, they are also in use as battery electrodes, thermal energy storage, and sensors, among others.