Challenges and prospects of synthesizing biomass-derived porous carbon for electrochemical capacitors

Abstract

The rising global demand for energy, driven by industrial growth and urbanization, has intensified reliance on fossil fuels, leading to environmental issues such as resource depletion and greenhouse gas emissions. In response, renewable energy sources such as wind and solar are becoming more prominent, but their intermittent availability necessitates the advancement of efficient energy storage solutions. Electrochemical energy storage systems, particularly electrochemical capacitors (ECs), are ideal for applications in electric vehicles, grid stabilization, and portable electronics. However, their low energy density compared to batteries remains a critical challenge, highlighting the need to explore advanced electrode materials to enhance performance. Among various materials, biomass-derived porous carbon (BDPC) has attracted considerable attention due to its abundant availability, environmental sustainability, high surface area, and adjustable porosity. BDPC, sourced from renewable precursors such as lignin, cellulose, and wood sawdust, exhibits unique structural characteristics that greatly influence its electrochemical performance. The choice of biomass precursor is crucial in determining key properties such as pore size distribution, surface area, and conductivity, all of which directly impact capacitance and overall efficiency of ECs. Despite its potential, BDPC faces several challenges in large-scale production, cost-effectiveness, and maintaining consistent material properties during manufacturing. Optimizing synthesis methods and activation strategies is crucial for enhancing BDPC's energy storage capabilities and advancing its transition from laboratory research to commercial use. This review examines the diverse applications of BDPC in ECs and evaluates its potential for large-scale commercialization. It explores key opportunities and barriers related to performance optimization, market feasibility, and regulatory compliance. Additionally, recent advancements in BDPC materials are discussed, with a focus on their structural characteristics, electrochemical properties, and strategies to enhance their energy storage performance. By analyzing current trends and emerging opportunities, this review provides valuable insights into how BDPC can contribute to increasing demand for high-performance, sustainable energy storage solutions.