Structured Biocarbon as Next Generation High-Performance Materials

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

In nature, the transport of water and nutrients in lignocellulosic biomass occurs through a series of highly ordered structures, such as vessels, tracheids, rays and pits in a living tree. Biomass is made of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin, with half of its dry mass being carbon - originated from carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Under carefully controlled conditions, biomass can be transformed to biocarbon a solid carbon material with porous structures that resemble its precursor. Biocarbon has not been systematically explored to serve as a functional material. This proposal is designed to unlock the potential of structured biocarbon as a new class of high-performance materials for applications that facilitate the sustainability. ******There are three major components in this proposal. First, a comprehensive and systematic characterization of biocarbon materials produced via various carbonization conditions from a range of biomass precursors. The goal is to discover the fundamental properties of biocarbon (e.g. electrical and thermal conductivity, permeability, mechanical strength) and to elucidate the relationships between these properties and the structures of biocarbon from atomic ( 1 cm) scales. Second, a systematic examination of synthesizing routes that enhance and augment biocarbon materials. The goal is to develop structured biocarbon materials that have enhanced or unique properties that allow superior performance in existing applications or the creation of new applications. Third, a performance study of biocarbon materials as electrode in electrical energy storage devices (e.g. supercapacitor and rechargeable batteries) and in capacitive purification of water. The goal is to discover and understand the mechanisms that govern the performance of biocarbon materials in these applications and to develop the process conditions that allow the synthesis of biocarbon materials with optimized properties. ******The proposed work will be carried out using established and modified methodologies in collaborations with researchers within the University of Toronto and other Canadian universities, as well as international colleagues in Japan, Italy and China. The program will provide opportunities for a group of over 30 students, both undergraduate and graduate, to work in an exciting area that is highly relevant to the wellbeing of the planet, to develop expertise and skills needed for a successful career in the new economy. This research on biocarbon possesses a strong potential in generating social and economical benefits, in particular for Canada - a country blessed with significant bio-resources from forests and agriculture residue. Creating a new class of functional materials from abundant bio-resources, developing high-performance clean technologies, facilitating the utilization of renewable energies, contributing to the greenhouse gas emission reduction, this research program is highly impactful.**