Valorization of biomass waste into carbon nanostructures for sustainable energy applications

The increasing global demand for sustainable energy has intensified research into alternative materials for energy conversion and storage devices. Carbon-based nanostructured materials (CNMs) have emerged as promising candidates due to their excellent electrochemical, mechanical, and electronic properties. This study explores the synthesis of CNMs from Masau (Ziziphus mauritiana) seed waste, utilizing a two-step pyrolysis and activation process. The biomass precursors were first carbonized at 700 °C under an inert atmosphere, followed by CO? activation to enhance porosity and surface area. The use of carbon dioxide as an activating agent not only improves the textural properties of the CNMs but also serves as a strategy for CO? utilization, thereby contributing to carbon capture efforts.

Structural and morphological characterization using Raman spectroscopy, XRD, TGA, TEM and SEM confirmed the successful formation of CNMs with desirable porosity and graphitization. Electrochemical measurements reveal a specific capacitance of 45 F/g and excellent charge- discharge stability over 200 cycles, demonstrating the material’s suitability for supercapacitor applications. Additionally, Masau seed-derived CNMs exhibited significant power and energy densities in energy storage devices, while also showing enhanced catalytic activity for fuel cell applications, particularly in CO? electroreduction reactions. This work underscores the potential of Masau seed-derived CNMs in advancing energy technologies while simultaneously addressing CO? mitigation through its utilization in material synthesis and electrochemical applications..

Dr. Kudzai Mugadza is a Chemist, whose research bridges sustainable catalysis, biomass-derived carbon nanostructures, CO₂ reduction, and circular economy materials, merging experimental innovation with computational insights. She holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Dr. Mugadza is passionate about translating advanced materials research into real-world energy and environmental solutions, she leads multidisciplinary teams and mentors emerging scientists. She is currently a Senior Lecturer and Deputy Director at the Institute of Materials Science, Processing, and Engineering Technology, Chinhoyi University of Technology, Zimbabwe.