Finite-size effects in the 3D reconstruction and morphological analysis of porous polymers

Abstract

The morphology of porous polymers determines their transport characteristics and thus their efficiency in numerous applications. Tailoring the properties of a structure to the intended use presents a major challenge to materials scientists, as long as methods for an accurate morphological characterization are lacking. We demonstrate the large-volume reconstruction and analysis of a polymeric monolith using serial block face scanning electron microscopy. Skeleton and void space of the monolith are statistically evaluated to extract key structural parameters relevant to mass transport, and to quantify finite-size effects, which are usually neglected, on their values.