5-hydroxymethylfurfural as a potential monomer for the preparation of carbon aerogel

► The prepared aerogels exhibit high surface areas with a well-developed mesoporosity. ► The addition of HMF leads to a change in the surface chemical characteristics. ► The C-O linkages and phenolic hydroxyl species are favorably formed at the surface. ► Intermolecular dehydration and addition reactions occur at the initial sol-gel stage. ► HMF is believed to be a potential monomer for preparing oxygen-rich carbon aerogels.