Salt-assisted synthesis of advanced carbon-based materials for energy-related applications

Carbon-based materials have demonstrated excellent thermal, electric, optical, magnetic, and mechanical properties, offering promising application potential in many fields. Corresponding synthetic approaches meeting the requirements of sustainable development goals are always desired. Compared with chemical vapor deposition, solvothermal, conventional pyrolysis, and salt-assisted methods are emerging as advanced synthetic technologies for the fabrication of carbon-based materials since these processes are expected to be more sustainable. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review on the salt-assisted synthesis of carbon-based materials and their typical energy-related applications. First, the properties of carbon and a comparison of various synthetic techniques are briefly introduced. In particular, we highlight the advantages of salt-assisted synthesis in view of sustainable development goals. For convenience, we divide the roles of salt in assisting the synthesis of carbon-based materials into four subclasses: reaction medium, pore-forming agent, morphology control, and precursors. Simultaneously, the applications of these carbon-based materials in energy-related fields are discussed. Lastly, the major challenges in this field are outlined, and future research avenues in salt-assisted synthesis of carbon-based materials for energy-related applications are also highlighted. It is expected that this tutorial review will supply necessary background information to further advance salt-assisted synthesis of carbon-based materials for energy-related applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of salt assisted synthesis of carbon based materials based on the role of salts in synthesis systems. Meanwhile, the application in energy related fields is emphasized.