Porengefüges

Porengefüges is a term used in materials science to describe a porous material that contains a continuous, interlinked network of voids extending through the solid matrix. The name derives from the German Poren (pores) and Gefüge (structure), and it is sometimes encountered in theoretical discussions of pore networks. In practice, a Porengefüges is characterized by high pore connectivity, open porosity, and a wide distribution of pore sizes that together enable percolation of fluids through the material.

The key structural features are pore connectivity, pore-size distribution, and tortuosity. Porengefüges materials may display a high specific surface area while maintaining low density. They can range from highly anisotropic foams to isotropic, lattice-like structures. Common formation routes include gas foaming, phase separation, sacrificial templating, freeze-drying, and additive manufacturing, each tailored to create an interconnected pore network.

Characterization typically involves porosimetry to measure porosity and pore throat sizes, imaging methods such as X-ray computed tomography or electron microscopy, and transport measurements to assess permeability and diffusivity. Applications of Porengefüges concepts span filtration membranes, catalyst supports, tissue engineering scaffolds, energy storage separators, and lightweight structural components where permeability is desired.

In the broader literature, Porengefüges is not a universally standardized term and may be used mainly in niche or theoretical contexts. It is often discussed alongside related notions of porosity, pore connectivity, and open porosity, rather than as a distinct, universally recognized material class.