Utilization of Biomass as a Source of Activated Carbon for Supercapacitor Applications: A Review
Abstract
Research on activated carbon generated from biomass as a possible supercapacitor electrode material has increased in response to the growing need for sustainable energy storage solutions. Recent advancements in the synthesis, activation, and electrochemical performance of activated carbon derived from biomass are covered in this review. Carbonization and chemical activation employing agents like KOH, H₃PO₄, ZnCl₂, and CaCl₂ which have a major impact on pore structure and surface area are the usual steps in biomass activation. CaCl₂ activation creates mesoporous structures that facilitate rapid ion diffusion and enhanced capacitance, whereas KOH and ZnCl₂ activation often yield the largest surface area with dominant micropores. Electrochemical stability and electrical conductivity are further improved by nitrogen doping. The selection of electrolyte is also crucial; ionic liquid electrolytes, such EMIM-BF₄, offer greater thermal stability and broader voltage windows, while aqueous electrolytes, including H₂SO₄ and KOH, offer high capacitance because of their high ionic conductivity. Depending on the pore shape and activation technique, biomass-based carbons have been reported to have specific capacitances ranging from 250 to 450 F/g. All things considered, a successful method for creating high-performance, sustainable electrode materials for next-generation supercapacitors involves combining appropriate activation agents, heteroatom doping, and optimal electrolytes.
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