Chapter 1 - Carbon nanotubes, graphene, porous carbon, and hybrid carbon-based materials: synthesis, properties, and functionalization for efficient energy storage

Abstract

Reliable energy generation at lowest expenditure has become essential for fulfilling present energy requirements. For this purpose, development of low-cost, scalable, efficient, and reliable catalysts is essential. Carbon-based materials are very promising for various energy storage application. Carbon-based heteroatom doped mesoporous electrodes have become very popular as catalysts for electrochemical energy conversion and storage. Various carbon allotropes can be utilized for cost-effective mass production of electrode materials. 3D porous carbon electrodes provide multiple advantages, including a large surface area for maximized active site exposure, 3D conductive pathways for efficient electron transport, and porous channels to facilitate electrolyte diffusion. However, it is challenging to synthesize and functionalize 3D carbon structures. In this chapter, we summarize various synthesis processes of porous carbon materials together with 3D architectures to understand how their physical and chemical properties together with heteroatom doping dictate the electrochemical catalytic performance. Prospects of attractive 3D carbon structural materials for energy conversion, and efficient integrated energy systems are also discussed.