Highly porous polyaniline- or polypyrrole-derived carbons: Preparation, characterization, and applications in adsorption

Nitrogen-doped porous carbons are one of the most fascinating materials with noticeable applications in adsorption/separations, catalysis, supercapacitors, and batteries. Polyaniline (pANI)- or polypyrrole (pPYR)-derived carbons (pADCs or pPDCs, respectively) exhibit very remarkable performances in the liquid- and gas-phase adsorptions because of some unique characteristics including nitrogen- and oxygen-functionalities, very high specific surface area, and tailored porosity. In this report, we reviewed the recent advances in the preparation and characterization of pADC- and pPDC-type materials and their applications in the adsorptive removal/separation of various chemicals from water, liquid fuel, and air. The preparation procedures and the surface properties of the reported pADC or pPDC adsorbents were explained, with adequate tables. The adsorption results were discussed in terms of the following points: (i) maximum adsorption capacities of the pADCs or pPDCs for a specific adsorbate, (ii) possible adsorbate-adsorbent interactions to understand the adsorption mechanisms, (iii) regeneration of pADC or pPDC adsorbents for recyclability. We believe that this review will provide new scientific perceptions to design/optimize highly porous carbons, especially pADCs or pPDCs, for various applications including adsorption.