Supramolecular aggregates as templates: Ordered mesoporous polymers and carbons

Supramolecular aggregate's self-assembling approach has derived diverse mesostructured inorganic solids. Recent progresses involve ordered mesoporous carbonaceous frameworks. This review paper summarizes the synthesis of ordered mesoporous polymers and carbons based on the supramolecular aggregates as templates. Block copolymers are mainly introduced here. Both the aggregates of block copolymers themselves and the assembling with thermosetting resins have the abilities to organize ordered mesostructures. The understanding of the synthesis is on the formation of supramolecular arrangement of molecules, templating, cross-linking, removal of templates, and carbonization. In addition, the morphological control and the functionalization of ordered mesoporous carbonaceous materials are briefly summarized. The attractive mesoporous carbonaceous materials offer great opportunities in catalysis, water purification, electrodes, adsorbents, gas storage, aero-space, etc.