Recent advancement of biomass-derived porous carbon based materials for energy and environmental remediation applications

Abstract

In recent times, increasing environmental pollution alongside depletion of fossil fuel reserves has led to a rejuvenated interest in utilizing biomass and waste materials. Advanced porous carbons derived from such abundantly available and carbon rich feedstock precursors have been extensively used for clean energy storage and environmental remediation applications. This is credited to the exclusive properties like high specific surface area with tunable pore size, developed pore architecture and chemical stability. Simultaneously, several techniques have been progressively designed and upgraded for pollutant abatement in terms of economical and facile methodologies. The review aims to highlight the importance of biomass/waste-derived nanoporous carbon materials for energy and environmental applications. Various bio-synthetic activation methods and up to date research activities in the design and sustainable development of such state-of-the-art materials have been introduced. In addition, promising applications of nanoporous carbons in electrochemical systems and for environmental protection are briefly reviewed. Finally, current challenges and strategies for future research are summarized. It is expected that this review paper would assist the reader to acquire concise and systematic information as well as contribute novel ideas over a wide spectrum of disciplines.