Recognition and applications of hierarchical domain structural analysis for synthetic carbons

Abstract

A hierarchical domain structure analytical method is introduced with a basic definition of cluster, microdomain and domain as the structural units for synthetic carbons. The differences between graphitizable and non-graphitizable carbons are possibly understood due to the difference in the fused inter-connection states of microdomains and the difference in domain size that is derived from it. KOH and steam activated carbons, which differ in the diffusion of the activation agent into the domains of the precursor during activation, have different domain sizes, which results in different specific surface areas, pore volumes and activation yields. It is highly expected that a better understanding of the structure of synthetic carbon based on this hierarchical domain structural model can give more possibilities for improving the performance and functionality of synthetic carbons in terms of their properties.