Gas Storage Capabilities and Structure of Nanoporous Carbon

Abstract

Networks of fractal nanopores in activated carbon have recently been discovered (Pfeifer et al., Phys. Rev. Lett. 88, 115502 (2002). These networks have shown promise in the storage of methane and hydrogen for use as alternative fuels. Our group produces activated carbon made from Missouri corn cob, figure 1. Analysis of the pore structure of these carbons is required in order to optimize the storage capabilities. A pore width of 1.1 nanometers is ideal for methane storage. Other properties, such as surface area, are also studied for use in the development of larger storage capacities