Abstract:
In this research CNSL was used as an environment-friendly alternative raw material instead of phenol, petroleum product, for synthesis of CNSL-Formaldehyde resin through non-catalytic polymerization. In order to add value to the resin, it can be further used as a precursor for the synthesis of porous carbon through carbonization process under nitrogen atmosphere to improve the performance of specific surface area and pore volume of porous carbon. The resin was activated by physical activation with carbon dioxide (CO2) and chemical activation with ferric nitrate solution [Fe(NO3)3]. The resin and porous carbon were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, nitrogen adsorption-desorption, and scanning electron microscope. The result showed that the resin had thermal stability over the temperature range 382-750°C. The obtained carbon from carbonization under nitrogen gas had a specific surface area of 5 m2/g with micropore and mesopore volumes of 0.0003 cm3/g and 0.0007 cm3/g, respectively. On the other hand, activation with CO2 can enhance the formation of micropores with micropore volume of 0.1104 cm3/g resulting in the highest specific surface area of 291 m2/g. In addition, the carbon derived from activation with Fe(NO3)3 showed magnetic properties which allowed the porous carbon to be easily separated from the medium by external magnetic force. The presence of Fe(NO3)3 also contributed to the generation of mesoporous structure with a high specific surface area and mesopore volume of 153 m2/g and 0.0928 cm3/g, respectively.