On the synthesis and structure of resorcinol-formaldehyde polymeric networks – Precursors to 3D-carbon macroassemblies

摘要: Abstract With the new impetus towards development of hierarchical graphene and CNT macro-assemblies for application in fields such as advanced energy storage, catalysis electronics; there is much renewed interest organic carbon-based sol–gel processes a synthetically convenient versatile means forming three dimensional, covalently bonded organic/inorganic networks. Such matrices can act highly effective precursors, scaffolds or molecular ‘glues’ assembly wide variety functional carbon macro-assemblies. However, despite utility broad use – ubiquitous resorcinol-formaldehyde (RF) reaction, are details reaction chemistries these important that remain poorly understood at present. It therefore both timely necessary to examine reactions more detail using modern analytical techniques order gain rigorous understanding mechanisms by which networks form. The goal studies obtain improved rational control over network structure, better direct tailor architecture final inorganic matrix. In this study we have investigated detail, mechanism resorcinol formaldehyde from structural kinetic standpoint, combination real-time high field solution state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), low NMR relaxometry differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). These investigations allowed us track formation real-time, detailed information on RF process quantitative assessment kinetics global process. has been shown mechanism, forms, proceeds via an initial exothermic step correlated free aromatic aldehyde. growth then statistical manner following first Arrhenius type relationship characteristic typical thermoset poly-condensation And relative complexity ill-defined nature staring material, structure large extent, governed substitution pattern molecule.