Abstract:
The present invention relates to a novel nanostructured porous material, method for the manufacture thereof and new uses. The material according to the invention is formed by a matrix comprising carbon particles having a high aspect ratio and at least one inherently conductive polymer bound together to form a self-supporting continuous network. In the method according to the invention an aqueous suspension of carbon particles having a high aspect ratio and monomers of at least one inherently conductive polymer is provided, the monomers are polymerized in the presence of the carbon particles, and the aqueous suspension is freeze-died to provide the nanostructured porous material. According to a preferred embodiment, electrically conductive carbon nanotubes are used. The invention provides a convenient way a manufacturing very low-density materials having unique properties.