Carbon metallic foam, also known as carbon foam or carbon foam metal composite, is a unique material that combines the properties of carbon and metal. It is characterized by its open-cell structure, which is similar to that of traditional foams but with the added benefit of metallic properties. Here are some key features and applications of carbon metallic foam:

Density: The density of C metal foam can range from as low as 0.1 g/cm³ to around 0.8 g/cm³ or even higher, depending on the manufacturing process and materials used. The density affects its weight and buoyancy.

Porosity: Carbon metallic foam typically has a porosity exceeding 90%, often around 95% or more. This high porosity results in a large surface area, which is beneficial for various applications.

Thermal Conductivity: Thermal conductivity can vary based on the composition, but it is often relatively low compared to pure metals. Values may range from 0.1 to 2 W/m·K, making it a good thermal insulator while still conducting heat to some extent.

Electrical Conductivity: The metallic component of carbon metallic foam provides good electrical conductivity, similar to some metals. It can have electrical resistivity values ranging from a few microohm-centimeters (μΩ·cm) to tens of milliohm-centimeters (mΩ·cm).

Compressive Strength: The compressive strength of carbon metallic foam can vary widely based on the foam's composition and structure. It may range from 1 MPa for softer foams to over 10 MPa for denser, stronger varieties.

Surface Area: Specific surface area values often range from 300 to 3,000 square meters per gram (m²/g) or more, providing ample surface for various chemical reactions or adsorption processes.

Pore Size Distribution: Carbon metallic foam may have a wide distribution of pore sizes, including micropores and macropores. The specific pore size distribution can be tailored for specific applications.

Temperature Resistance: Carbon metallic foam is known for its high-temperature resistance. It can withstand temperatures well above 1,000 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for applications in extreme environments.

Corrosion Resistance: The corrosion resistance of carbon metallic foam can vary depending on the materials used in its composition. Some formulations are designed to resist corrosion effectively.

Sound Absorption: Carbon metallic foam exhibits good sound-absorbing properties, making it useful for noise reduction applications, with sound absorption coefficients typically ranging from 0.5 to 0.9.

Applications:

Aerospace: Carbon metallic foam is used in the aerospace industry for structural components that need to be both lightweight and strong. It can be found in aircraft components, heat shields, and spacecraft components.

Thermal Management: Due to its combination of thermal insulation and conductivity, carbon metallic foam is used in applications such as heat exchangers and thermal management systems.

Energy Storage: It has applications in energy storage devices like supercapacitors, where its high surface area and conductivity are advantageous.

Electrochemical Applications: Carbon metallic foam is used in various electrochemical applications, including fuel cells and batteries, due to its electrical conductivity and high surface area, which enhances reaction rates.

Catalysis: Its high surface area and conductivity make it useful as a catalyst support in chemical reactions.

Radiation Absorption: In nuclear applications, carbon metallic foam is used for its radiation absorption properties.

Water Purification: The high porosity and large surface area make it useful for water purification and filtration.

Sound Absorption: It can be used as a sound-absorbing material in acoustic applications.

Carbon metallic foam is a versatile material that finds application in various industries due to its unique combination of properties. Its lightweight nature, structural stability, conductivity, and thermal properties make it suitable for a wide range of demanding applications.