Mesophase pitch-derived graphite foams with selective distribution of TiC nanoparticles for catalytic applications

TiC-supported metals are systems of great importance in catalysis science and technology. Albeit their interest, catalysts based on monoliths consisting of TiC-containing carbonaceous foams have not yet been fabricated. This work aims to present a route for fabrication of mesophase pitch-derived open-pore graphite foams with TiC nanoparticles selectively distributed in two locations: at the surface of the pore cells, able for metal-support, and in the bulk, essential to achieve high degree of graphitization for enhancement of thermal conductivity. The double distinctive effect of the nanoparticles in the monoliths makes these materials interesting to be checked in catalytic applications. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.