Production of Graphitic Carbon from Renewable Lignocellulosic Biomass Source

Carbon materials derived from lignocellulosic biomass (LCB) precursors have emerged as sustainable and versatile candidates, exhibiting outstanding properties for energy storage applications. This study presents an innovative and cost-efficient approach to produce graphitic carbon from an LCB precursor (pinecone) using an optimized hydrothermal treatment process followed by carbonization and graphitization. The developed pinecone-derived graphitic carbon (PDGC) was analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). XRD analysis confirmed the formation of a graphitic phase, indicated by a sharp and intense (002) peak, decreased interplanar spacing (d₀₀₂), increased crystallite size (L_c~20.4 nm), and a high degree of graphitization (g~0.7), closely aligning with the characteristics of pure graphite. Additionally, TEM and SEM micrographs revealed a flake-like morphology with well-defined, continuous, and extended graphitic layers within the PDGC structure. The distinctive structural attributes of the developed material position it as a promising candidate for batteries and capacitors, while also serving as a model for converting LCB into advanced carbon materials.