Biomass waste-based material: Electrochemical performance and CO2 uptake capability

Abstract

This study investigates the utilization of Japanese cedar bark (JCB) waste for the preparation of chemically-activated porous biochar materials using K2CO3 (xKC, where x represents the K2CO3 to JCB weight ratio). The research explores the versatile applications of these biochar materials, specifically focusing on CO2 adsorption and as supercapacitors. A thorough analysis employing chemical composition, microstructure, gas adsorption isotherms is conducted to gain insights into the surface and structural properties of the materials. The CO2 adsorption and electrochemical performance are assessed through isotherms at 298K and various electrochemical techniques. The study identifies functional groups and pore structures as critical factors influencing the adsorption capacity of xKC. Among the samples, 2KC demonstrated the optimal CO2 adsorption (approximately 180 mg g− 1), while 6KC exhibited superior electrochemical stability, with a maximum capacitance of around 210 F g− 1 at 10 mA g− 1. This comprehensive exploration provides valuable insights into the impact of material properties on both CO2 adsorption and electrochemical behavior in K2CO3-activated biochar from JCB, suggesting promising interdisciplinary applications.