Micro-Structure Determines the Intrinsic Property Difference of Bio-Based Nitrogen-Doped Porous Carbon—A Case Study

Biomass-derived porous carbon materials have drawn considerable attention due to their natural abundance and low cost. In this work, nitrogen-doped porous carbons with high nitrogen content and large surface areas were designed and prepared from cottonseed hull and cattail. The two plant-based biomass compositions are similar, but the structures are very different, generating distinctly different property and performance of the prepared carbon materials. NRPC-112 has good electrochemical properties, while CN800 has good adsorption properties. By comparing the microstructure differences between the two starting materials, it was found that the structure of the raw materials would significantly affect the properties and performance of the materials. The work provided an important theoretical basis and reference for the selection of bio-resources for preparing carbon material. It is also important for choosing the appropriate synthesis method, process optimization, and application scenarios.