A Comprehensive Overview on Biochar-Based Materials for Catalytic Applications

Abstract

The development of heterogeneous catalysts is one of the pillars of modern material science. Among all supports, carbonaceous ones are the most popular due to their high surface area, limited cost, and tunable properties. Nevertheless, materials such as carbon black are produced from oil-derived sources lacking in sustainability. Pyrolytic carbon produced from biomass, known as biochar, could represent a valid solution to combine the sustainability and performance of supported catalysts. In this review, we report a comprehensive overview of the most cutting-edge applications of biochar-based catalysts, providing a reference point for both experts and newcomers. This review will provide a description of all possible applications of biochar-based catalysts, proving their sustainability for the widest range of processes.

Keywords

• biochar
• thermal catalysis
• electrochemical catalysis
• heterogeneous catalysis