Synthesis of ternary ceramics (Cr2AlC) by using biochars

In this paper, we report the synthesis of Cr2AlC by using biochars derived from lignin, Distiller's dried grains with solubles (DDGS), and hemp fibers. Initially, the powders were pyrolyzed at 1350 degrees C for 4 h in Ar atmosphere to form biochars. The ball-milled and sieved biochar powders were then mixed with Cr and Al powders in different stoichiometric ratios according to the C-content of the biochars. The mixed powders were reacted at 1350 degrees C for 4 h in Ar atmosphere. Detailed scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis showed the powders derived from hemp and DDGS biochars were > 90% pure as compared to powders derived from lignin biochar which was 76% pure. It is expected that ternary ceramics derived from biochars can be an addition avenue for carbon-storage.