Artifacts and misinterpretations in gas physisorption measurements and characterization of porous solids

This contribution provides a critical review of gas physisorption in the textural characterization of porous solids, with the focus on the artifacts in experimental data that lead to serious misinterpretation of the results derived from the analysis of adsorption isotherms. Apart from the problems related to the determination and interpre-tation of the BET area, we paid particular attention to the issues associated with the determination of pore size distribution; for example, the choice of the correct branch of the hysteresis loop and the network effects. Pitfalls in the analyses using either the classical macroscopic or the advanced microscopic (DFT, GCMC) methodology are addressed. The ultimate aim is to provide guidance for proper calculations and correct interpretation of physisorption data.

Automated summary

This contribution critically reviews the use of gas physisorption for the characterization of porous solids, emphasizing the presence of artifacts in experimental data that can lead to misinterpretation of adsorption isotherm analysis results. Issues related to the determination of BET area and pore size distribution are particularly addressed, including the correct selection of the hysteresis loop branch and consideration of network effects. The article discusses pitfalls in both macroscopic and microscopic (DFT, GCMC) analysis methodologies, aiming to provide guidance for accurate calculations and interpretation of physisorption data.