The Influence of Hollow Carbon Sphere in Heterogeneous Catalysis

Abstract

Hollow carbon spheres (HCSs) are hollow structured carbon particles of sizes ranging between micron and nanometre sizes with thin outer shells. They are of importance for their unique properties such as encapsulation ability, controllable permeability, surface functionality, high surface-to-volume ratios, and excellent chemical and thermal stabilities. In this communication, a precise description is presented of the synthesis, characterization, and applications of HCSs. Synthesis of HCSs is normally carried out in two ways, namely, hard-templating and soft-templating methods. These materials are characterized by modern techniques to investigate their structural and textural properties to get an insight into the material. Finally, the recent progress made in the applications of HCSs has been reported in the area of catalysis as a support material and energy storage device.