Strength and pore structure of models for carbon catalyst supports

Abstract The porous structure, measured by image analysis, and mechanical properties (elastic modulus, flexural strength and toughness) of carbons prepared from phenolic resins (novolaks) by a powder pressing method are compared to those of glassy carbons prepared by casting of liquid resins. Carbons with pore volume fractions up to ∼0.65 were prepared with mechanical properties which are comparable with those of many other engineering carbon materials. Porosity and mechanical properties can be varied by alterations to the fabrication parameters, e.g., pressing conditions, addition of pore forming agents and carbonisation rate. The combination of high porosity and good mechanical properties suggests that these carbons may be suitable as catalyst supports.