Biochar-Based Polymer Composites: A Pathway to Enhanced Electrical Conductivity

Abstract

In the past 20-25 years, biochar has been promoted as a valuable resource of a carbon filler in polymer composites, sustainable agriculture, and environmental quality protection given its improved porous structure and electrochemical properties in comparison to other carbon-based materials. Recent works focusing on biochar and biochar-based nanocomposites are highlighting such properties and are even enhanced with nanotechnology. The higher porosity attributed to biochar is highlighted along with its great electrochemical properties able to retain nutrients for longer and favors their slow release. The use of biochar as a filler material to improve the electrical conductivity properties of polymers and the emphasis on various parameters, such as pyrolysis temperature, the type of feedstock, and compaction pressures on the electrical conductivity of the resultant composites are discussed.

Keywords: Biochar, Electrical Conductivity, Polymer Composites, Percolation, Organic Conductors.

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