THERMALLY ACTIVATED PHENOLIC FIBERS

The activation of phenolic fibers in air, at temperatures between 300 and 450-degrees-C, was studied. Products with a surface area up to 500 m2/g and acceptable wear resistance were prepared. Treatment conditions for optimizing the surface area were defined, and the limits for time-temperature of activation established. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to simulate operating conditions such as temperature and time, in a given activation configuration. The activated phenolic fibers were characterized in terms of their chemical composition, density, wear resistance, and adsorption characteristics. Thus, activation at 450-degrees-C, for 5 min, led to a product with 57% yield and 480 m2/g. The oxygen content in these products is as high as 30%, and a density of 1.571 g/mL is measured. Finally, the adsorption and retention of polar gases are favored in relation to nonpolar substances.