Generation of nitrogen functionalities on activated carbons by amidation reactions and Hofmann rearrangement: Chemical and electrochemical characterization

摘要: Abstract Nitrogen functionalization of a highly microporous activated carbon (BET surface area higher than 3000 m2/g) has been achieved using the following sequence treatments: (i) chemical oxidation concentrated nitric acid, (ii) amidation by acyl chloride substitution with NH4NO3 and (iii) amination Hoffman rearrangement. This reaction pathway yielded amide amine functional groups, total nitrogen content 3 at.%. It is producing only small decrease (20%) starting microporosity, being most it related to initial wet carbon. Remarkably, aromatic rings were also formed as consequence secondary cyclation reactions. The controlled step-by-step modification chemistry allowed assess influence individual groups in electrochemical performance 1 M H2SO4 materials. largest gravimetric capacitance was registered for pristine due its apparent area. nitrogen-containing carbons showed highest capacitances. Interestingly, amidated superior retention presence (such lactams, imides pyrroles) that enhance electrical conductivity through their electron-donating properties, showing 83 F/g at 50 A/g.