Scanning Force Microscopy Studies of the Surface Structure of Activated Carbon Fabric

Abstract

The surface structures of activated carbon fabrics and their precursors are examined by scanning force microscopy and scanning tunneling microscopy. Results indicate clear dissim ilarities in the characteristic surface structures of both activated carbon fabrics prepared from different precursors of regenerated cellulosic fibers. The surface structure of these fabrics is resolved over a larger area (2 X 2 μm), showing that the distance between peaks and valleys is larger for one activated carbon fabric (V900) prepared from regular viscose rayon fiber precursors than for another (P900816) made from polynosic fiber precursors. In other words, the BET specific surface area and total pore volume are larger for the former than for the latter. Resolution over (8X8 nm) areas confirms that the surface of the activated carbon fabric develops a microporous structure. The BET specific surface area tester confirms data for the high specific surface area and total pore volume of activated carbon fabrics.