Sustainable and green synthesis of carbon nanomaterials: A review

Carbon-based nanomaterials are touted as a very versatile with very wide range of applications from pharma-ceutical and biomedical industry in the form of carbon quantum dots to the automobile and aviation industry in the form of nanofiber additives. A lot of reaction technologies have been developed for synthesizing these nanomaterials. In the recent past, focus has been shifted in developing eco-friendly green pathways for their fabrication. One of the best ways to do it is by researching upon a bio-based, renewable, sustainable or carbon containing waste precursor for their synthesis. This work outlines the advancement on the modern trends of the ecofriendly, green approaches and techniques of carbon-based nanomaterials. The following work is a comprehensive review of the experimental outcome of the recent advanced and novel trends, the green pathways, various scale-up techniques and modern methodologies for preparation of carbon-based nanoparticles in a cost effective and environmentally friendly manner. Among various reported bio-based precursors, wool seems to have a promising place with 22.5% quantum yield of carbon nanomaterial and the increasing research on various bio-based precursors is self-evidence of its capability to provide a sustainable source.

Automated summary

Carbon-based nanomaterials have a wide range of applications from pharmaceuticals to automobile industry. In recent years, there has been a focus on developing eco-friendly green pathways for their fabrication using bio-based or sustainable waste precursors. Research on various bio-based precursors is increasing, showing potential for providing sustainable sources.