Biochar-Derived Carbon Nanomaterials in Electrocatalytic Water Splitting for Hydrogen Production.

Abstract

Due to its zero carbon emissions, hydrogen has emerged as a promising clean energy source. By utilizing water electrolysis for hydrogen production, carbon neutralization can be advanced technologically and practically. Developing durable, cost-effective electrocatalysts with low overpotentials is essential for electrochemical water splitting. In order to produce hydrogen efficiently, it is important to choose materials that are most suitable for converting energy into hydrogen. Due to their tunable structure, expansive surface area, and outstanding electrocatalytic properties, carbon nanomaterials are becoming increasingly important in this field. Furthermore, their high conductivity and catalytic potential make them promising hydrogen energy candidates. As a precursor material, biochar can be used to produce carbon nanomaterials in an innovative manner. Carbon nanomaterials have been synthesized from biochar in a variety of ways, each producing a different structure. This review discusses biochar production and biochar nanostructures derived from biochar, including carbon dots, carbon tubes, nanofibers, nanosheets, and nanoflakes, along with their energy conversion efficiency and structural tunability. Furthermore, this review investigates recent advances in electrochemical water splitting. It places a particular emphasis on carbon nanomaterials derived from biochar as catalysts. Its objective is to provide valuable insight into the advancement of sustainable hydrogen energy solutions.