Catalytically transformed low energy intensive 2D-layered and single crystal-graphitic renewable carbon cathode conductors. (15th October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Semeniuk, Maria; Sarshar, Zahra; Gezahegn, Sossina; Li, Zhishan; Egbedina, Abisola; Tjong, Jimi; Oksman, Kristiina; Chin, Ya-Huei (Cathy); Sain, Mohini
• Is Part Of: Carbon. Volume 183(2021)
• Page Start: 243
• Page End: 250
• Publication Date: 2021-10-15
• Subjects: Renewable carbon -- Catalyst -- Graphite -- Pyrolysis -- Conductivity; Carbon -- Periodicals; Carbone -- Périodiques; Koolstof; Toepassingen; Electronic journals; 546.681
• DOI: 10.1016/j.carbon.2021.06.086
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0008-6223

Abstract

Abstract: This is the first study of the catalytic graphitization of Black Spruce ( Picea mariana ) which has successfully discovered the formation of single crystal graphitic carbon structures with a very high conductivity over 850 S/m implemented in the cathode of a coin cell battery. Renewable carbon with this conductivity is suitable for use in bio-electronics, organic thin film transistors, fuel cells, organic batteries, supercapacitors and sensing device applications. The P. mariana was doped with iron nitrate nanoparticle precursor, and sequentially thermo-catalyzed in presence of helium at temperatures between 300 and 800 °C. Transmission electron micrographs reveal formation of graphitic structures with an interplanar distance of ∼0.33 nm resembling single crystal graphite structure. Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction studies confirm the presence of nano-layered carbon, and the high conductivity was observed in Fe-free residual graphite. Thus, using iron nitrate as a catalyst promotes the formation of single crystal graphitic structures at a significantly reduced thermal energy than traditional pyrolysis treatment and opens a new frontier for sustainable bio-electronics and energy materials manufacturing. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Renewable carbon from woody biomass yields materials for use in energy applications. Demonstrated applications of a cathode in coin cell battery and a conductor. Iron nitrate catalyst promotes formation of graphite structure at lower temperatures. Single crystal graphitic structures with an exceptional conductivity over 850 S/m. Raman and XRD studies confirm the presence of nano-layered carbon.