Open Access

REVIEW

Biomass-Derived Carbon-Based Nanomaterials: Current Research, Trends, and Challenges

Robyn Lesch¹, Evan David Visser¹, Ntalane Sello Seroka^1,2,*, Lindiwe Khotseng^1,*

1 Department of Chemistry, University of the Western Cape, Private Bag X17, Bellville, 7535, South Africa
2 Energy Centre, Smart Places Cluster, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Pretoria, 0001, South Africa

* Corresponding Authors: Ntalane Sello Seroka. Email: ; Lindiwe Khotseng. Email:

(This article belongs to the Special Issue: Biochar Based Materials for a Green Future)

Journal of Renewable Materials 2025, 13(10), 1935-1977. https://doi.org/10.32604/jrm.2025.02025-0026

Received 05 February 2025; Accepted 20 May 2025; Issue published 22 October 2025

Abstract

The review investigates the use of biomass-derived carbon as precursors for nanomaterials, acknowledging their sustainability and eco-friendliness. It examines various types of biomasses, such as agricultural residues and food byproducts, focussing on their transformation via environmentally friendly methods such as pyrolysis and hydrothermal carbonisation. Innovations in creating porous carbon nanostructures and heteroatom surface functionalisation are identified, enhancing catalytic performance. The study also explores the integration of biomass-derived carbon with nanomaterials for energy storage, catalysis, and other applications, noting the economic and environmental benefits. Despite these advantages, challenges persist in optimising synthesis methods and scaling production. The study also highlights existing research gaps, forms a basis for future studies, and underscores the role of biomass-derived nanomaterials in promoting a circular economy and sustainability.

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