Synthesis and characterization of carbon cryogel/multi-walled carbon nano tubes composite

In this study we investigated the possibility to incorporate multi-walled carbon nano tubes (MWCNTs) into the carbon cryogel matrix in order to enhance the structural, textural, and adsorptive properties of the carbon cryogels. Composites with different weight percentage of MWCNTs (1, 3 and 5%) were synthesized by sol-gel method, followed by freeze-drying and carbonization. The obtained materials were characterized using nitrogen adsorption-desorption measurements and field emission scanning electron microscopy. Also, point of zero charge (PZC) was determined. The application of composite in water purification processes will be investigated in batch adsorption experiments.