Lignin-derived macroporous carbon foams prepared by using poly(methyl methacrylate) particles as the template

An efficient route for the synthesis of lignin-derived carbon foams by thermal decomposition of an organic colloid template is described. Lignin, resorcinol, and formaldehyde were reacted by polycondensation into a crosslinked phenolic resin network in the presence of colloidal poly(methyl methacrylate) microspheres as the sacrificial template. Subsequently, carbonization was carried out at 800 °C to fabricate carbon foams with porous structural frameworks. Lignin was used as an excellent candidate for replacing resorcinol or other phenolic substances in the phenolic resin due to its high carbon yield above 50%. The prepared lignin-derived carbon foams had partially open cell structures. The carbon foams had the bulk density and porosity of 0.37–0.60 g/mL and 68.5–82.8%, respectively. Furthermore, the addition of lignin increased the mechanical properties strength of carbon foams.