Electrospun Kraft Lignin/Cellulose Acetate-Derived Nanocarbon Network as an Anode for High-Performance Sodium-Ion Batteries

An innovative nanocarbon network material was synthesized from electrospun kraft lignin and cellulose acetate blend nanofibers after carbonization at 1000 degrees C in a nitrogen atmosphere, and its electrochemical performance was evaluated as an anode material in sodium-ion batteries. Apart from its unique network architecture, introduced carbon material possesses high oxygen content of 13.26%, wide interplanar spacing of 0.384 nm, and large specific surface area of 540.95 m(2).g(-1). The electrochemical test results demonstrate that this new nanocarbon network structure delivers a reversible capacity of 340 mA h.g(-1) at a current density of 50 mA.g(-1) after 200 cycles and exhibits a high rate capacity by delivering a capacity of 103 mA h.g(-1) at an increased current density of 400 mA.g(-1). The present work rendered an innovative approach for preparing nanocarbon materials for energy-storage applications and could open up new avenues for novel nanocarbon fabrication from green and environmentally friendly raw materials.