Investigating the Role of the Catalyst within Resorcinol-Formaldehyde Gel Synthesis.

ABSTRACT: Resorcinol-formaldehyde (RF) gels are porous materials synthesized via a sol-gel reaction and subsequently dried, producing structures with high surface areas and low densities-properties that are highly attractive for use in various applications. The RF gel reaction takes place in the presence of a catalyst, either acidic or basic in nature, the concentration of which significantly impacts final gel properties. The full extent of the catalyst's role, however, has been subject to debate, with the general consensus within the field being that it is simply a pH-adjuster. The work presented here explores this theory, in addition to other theories postulated in the literature, through the synthesis and analysis of RF gels catalysed by mixtures of relevant compounds with varying concentrations.

SUBMITTER: Martin E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8482184 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature