Biochar: Empowering the future of energy production and storage.

This review assesses biochar's potential as an electrode material for energy producing (microbial fuel cells (MFCs) and energy storage devices (supercapacitors, batteries). Conventional energy storage faces challenges due to resource scarcity, cost, and environmental impact. Biochar, derived from biomass using different processes like pyrolysis, hydrothermal treatment, and flash pyrolysis offers a renewable and eco-friendly alternative. It is easy to synthesize and has a high surface area, porous structure, reasonable conductivity, and chemical stability which make it a suitable material for bioelectrochemical processes and energy storage devices. It has shown promise in MFCs, supercapacitors, and batteries, enhancing electricity production, charge storage capacity, and stability. However, challenges persist in optimizing biochar preparation and scaling up production. To fully realize its benefits, further research is needed to understand underlying electrochemical processes and develop effective large-scale implementation strategies, leading to a greener and more sustainable energy landscape. [Display omitted] • Growing industrialization amplifies energy needs. • Biomass can be converted into biochar using pyrolysis and gasification. • Renewables tackle rising energy demand and necessitate efficient storage. • Batteries and supercapacitors are vital for high-density energy storage in electronics. • Biochar is an affordable eco-friendly electrode promoting sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]