Co-improvement of –COOH group and –SO3H group densities in carbon-based solid acid by a simple strategy

Abstract High-performance carbon-based solid acid was prepared by a simple method. The effects of carbonization temperature and mixing ratio on the structure and performance of carbon catalysts were explored. The participation of borax increases both –COOH group and –SO3H group densities. In addition, graphitization and specific surface area of the catalyst increase by this co-carbonization method. Higher –COOH group density and aromaticity facilitate the adsorption between catalyst and substrate molecule through hydrogen bonding and CH-π interaction respectively. These improvements of structural significantly increase the hydrolysis activity of the catalyst.