Coal derived carbon nanomaterials - Recent advances in synthesis and applications

Carbon based nanomaterials have attracted attention due to their exceptional physical, chemical and biological properties, which make them promising candidates in transforming the future of various critical applications. The intense demand to develop carbon nanomaterials via environment-friendly and inexpensive synthesis strategies have been driving a significant proportion of efforts globally. Precursors utilized for the growth of carbon based nanomaterials play a crucial role toward the success of the evolving technology. Most conventional synthesis techniques employ expensive carbon feedstocks such as hydrocarbons and graphite which lead to high cost of production and hence limit their commercialization. Coal, an abundant and cheap natural resource, is considered a green and viable alternative to effectively generate carbon nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, nanofibers/particles/spheres, graphene, graphene oxide, graphene quantum dots and carbon dots. Our review includes recent advances in the production of various carbon based nanomaterials from various types of coal (lignite, bituminous, anthracite among others) as raw materials and outlines their potential applications in the energy, environmental and biomedical sectors. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.