Generation of hierarchical meso- and macroporous carbon from mesophase pitch by spinodal decomposition using polymer templates

A novel strategy for the synthesis of hierarchical porous carbon is presented here based on the spinodal phase separation of mesophase pitch, which acts as a carbon precursor, and a soft polymer template. A continuous macropore structure and mesopores are obtained upon carbonization, as shown in the figure. The material exhibits remarkable performance as the anode material in lithium-ion batteries.