Correlation between the carbonization temperature and the physical parameters of porous carbons derived from Yucca flaccida

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to develop monolithic ecological carbon materials of high porosity from the woody stems of yucca (Yucca flaccida). Monolithic blocks cut from the stem were carbonized in a nitrogen atmosphere, at the temperature range from 300°C to 950°C with the constant heating rate. The resultant carbon materials were characterized by dimensional changes, yield of char, elemental analysis, and various physical parameters: the true density, the bulk porosity, the longitudinal ultrasonic wave velocity and elastic anisotropy. The thermal decomposition study (TGA) was also performed. The microstructure of longitudinal and transverse sections of stems of raw and carbonized yucca were analysed by SEM. All parameters studied and the microscopic observations were discussed in relation to the pyrolysis temperature.