Activation of electrospun carbon fibers: the effect of fiber diameter on CO2 and steam reaction kinetics

Abstract First, we present a fabrication process for electrospun carbon fiber mats with mean diameters between 108 nm and 623 nm. The were produced by electrospinning of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) solutions subsequent carbonization. feature small variations their properties that are required parameter studies. Second, investigate the kinetics steam CO 2 activation three different temperatures times. Both methods result in surface area increase depending on temperature time. Detailed analysis macroscopic burn-off, area, conductivity reveals insights into microscopic kinetics. enable distinction driven bulk processes. Our results indicate, mass transport controlled, reaction rate controlled. turbostratic nature PAN derived distinct characteristics agents could explain nonlinear behavior burn-off development.