The synthesis, characterization and carbon dioxide adsorption of polyimide aerogels containing Tröger’s base units

Abstract

Microporous polymers with uniform pores and large specific surface areas have been extensively studied in the field of CO2 adsorption and separation. However, the synthesis of these microporous materials is quite complex and difficult to achieve large-scale production and application. In this study, we have successfully synthesized a novel mesoporous polyimide aerogel containing Tröger’s base using a facile and mild method at room temperature. Thermal decomposition temperature of the obtained polyimide aerogels was above 420°C, which exhibited outstanding thermal stability. The maximum adsorption capacity of CO2 is 24.08 cm3/g. The high CO2 adsorptions are attributed to the abundance of nitrogen-rich heteroatoms in the polyimide networks. The mild and convenient preparation method and high CO2 adsorptive capacity indicate that the mesoporous polyimide aerogels with Tröger’s base can also be suitable as an adsorbent for CO2 capture in industrial applications.