Advanced carbon aerogels for energy applications

Abstract

Carbon aerogels are a unique class of high-surface-area materials derived by sol–gel chemistry. Their high mass-specific surface area and electrical conductivity, environmental compatibility and chemical inertness make them very promising materials for many energy related applications, specifically in view of recent developments in controlling their morphology. In this perspective we will review the synthesis of monolithic resorcinol–formaldehyde based carbon aerogels with hierarchical porosities for energy applications, including carbon nanotube and graphene composite carbon aerogels, as well as their functionalization by surface engineering. Applications that we will discuss include hydrogen and electrical energy storage, desalination and catalysis.