Abstract
Biomass derived carbon aerogels (BDCAs) have become a major area of interest because of their high potential for functionality and novel structure, which makes them potential candidates for environmentally friendly next generation carbonaceous materials. This review discusses the synthesis route for developing porous carbon structures from renewable biomass such as cellulose, lignin, hemicellulose and chitosan through sol-gel processes, freeze-drying, supercritical drying, carbonization and activation. Moreover, reorganizes BDCAs according to their precursors by describing common features and possible applications of cellulose-based, lignin-based, hemicellulose-based, and chitosan-based aerogels. In addition, characterization methods such as SEM, BET analysis, FTIR and XRD are explained the surface morphology, pore structure and chemical constitution of the aerogels. Due to high surface area, lower thermal conductivity and high electrical conductivity, the BDCAs are suitable for energy storage applications, catalysis and environmental application. This review also supports the role of BDCAs for the development of new sustainable technologies and the reduction of negative environmental effects of conventional materials.