On the Analysis of Cryogels and Xerogels Using Cellulose Nanofibers and Graphene Oxide

Aerogels are highly porous and ultralight three-dimensional materials with great potential for various applications. To obtain highly porous and structurally stable aerogels, a carefully designed synthesis process is required. These materials offer flexibility in manipulating their properties, allowing the incorporation of modifying agents according to specific needs. In this study, compounds were synthesized using graphene oxide (GO) and nanocellulose fibers (NFC) through the hydrothermal reduction methodology. Two drying techniques were employed: lyophilization and oven evaporation, resulting in materials called cryogel and xerogel, respectively. Various parameters that can interfere with the properties of these nanomaterials were evaluated. The results indicated that the cryogel dried by lyophilization provided the best applicability due to its structural flexibility after compressions, whereas the xerogel obtained through the oven evaporation process resulted in a compound with high rigidity and disintegration. Structural characterizations demonstrated the successful development of the precursors and promising characteristics in the synthesized nanomaterials. With its flexibility, approximately 98% porosity, low shrinkage rate, light weight, and electrical conductivity, the developed cryogel showed high potential in various applications, such as pressure sensors, electromagnetic shielding, and other research and development fields.

Automated summary

Aerogels are highly porous and ultralight materials with great potential for various applications. In this study, compounds were synthesized using graphene oxide (GO) and nanocellulose fibers (NFC) through a carefully designed hydrothermal reduction process. Two drying techniques, lyophilization and oven evaporation, were employed to obtain cryogel and xerogel materials, respectively. The results showed that cryogel dried by lyophilization had the best applicability due to its structural flexibility, while xerogel dried through oven evaporation resulted in a rigid and disintegrated compound. The developed cryogel exhibited promising characteristics such as high porosity, low shrinkage rate, light weight, and electrical conductivity, making it suitable for various applications including pressure sensors and electromagnetic shielding.