Palm kernel shell-derived nanoporous carbon materials: A review on preparation, modification and application

Nanoporous carbon materials derived from the palm kernel shell is a type of carbon materials with improved properties attuned for the applications in plethora of sophisticated technology in the world today. They are generally prepared by methods involving carbonization and activation steps and can be tailored to possess targeted properties based on their intended use. Nanoporous carbon materials have been applied in the water treatment, adsorption of gases, solar cells, energy storage and medicine. This mini review gives a summary of preparations, characterizations and modifications of nanoporous carbon materials. The applications of nanoporous carbon materials in environmental remediation and water treatment, adsorption of gases, energy storage and batteries, and sensors were also elaborated. This review gives a basis for the importance of the materials in meeting global challenges in environment, clean water, medicine, and energy thus provides motivation for comprehensive studies into the synthesis of functional nanoporous carbon materials and its application.