Colloidal and micro-carbon spheres derived from low-temperature polymerization reactions

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Carbon spheres (CSs) are gaining interest for diverse applications due to their unique physicochemical properties.
• These properties include tunable morphology, high surface area, electrical conductivity, and biocompatibility.
• CSs can be synthesized from various precursors using different methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the production of carbon spheres (CSs) through low-temperature polymerization (<250°C).
• To propose a novel classification of CS synthesis methods based on polymer sphere formation mechanisms.
• To summarize recent advancements and applications of CSs.

Main Methods:

• Carbonization of polymer spheres synthesized via emulsion, precipitation, dispersion, hard-templating, spray-drying, and hydrothermal/solvothermal methods.
• Analysis of morphology and surface characteristics of synthesized CSs.
• Review of existing literature on CS production and applications.

Main Results:

• Low-temperature polymerization offers a versatile route to CSs with controlled morphologies and doping capabilities.
• A novel classification system for CS synthesis based on polymerization mechanisms is proposed.
• CSs exhibit significant potential in energy storage (supercapacitors, batteries) and conversion (fuel cells, solar cells).

Conclusions:

• Low-temperature polymerization is a key method for producing versatile carbon spheres.
• CSs demonstrate broad applicability across energy, catalysis, and biomedical fields.
• Further research into CS synthesis and applications is warranted.