Functional Starch Based Carbon Aerogels for Energy Applications

Nanoporous carbon aerogels were synthesized by the carbonization of organic aerogels, derived from a sol-gel polymerization using various types of starch and followed by an ambient pressure drying. Optimal conditions for pyrolysis of organic aerogels were determined by TG/DTG/SDTA analysis. The structure and the morphology of the prepared carbon aerogels were investigated using XRD and N2-BET measurements respectively. Electrical properties of the obtained aerogels were examined by EC studies. Prepared carbon materials revealed high surface area and good electrical conductivity. Thus, one can say that carbon aerogels exhibit potential as new materials for energy applications (eg. supercapacitors, Li-ion batteries, etc.).