Porous Carbon Nanofibers: Preparation and Potential Applications

Porous carbon nanofibers (PCNFs) are excellent one dimensional (1D) carbon materials that have fascinating applications in the fields of gas separation, catalyst support, sensors, energy storage and conversion devices, due to their highly developed pore structure and large surface area. Therefore, fabrication of PCNFs has attracted much attention, and many kinds of methods have been explored. Recent developments in fabrication of PCNFs are summarized in the review. Their fundamental principles and process, applications, advantages and disadvantages are discussed in detail. With careful preparation techniques, PCNFs with high specific surface area, hierarchical and well- aligned pores can be obtained, and desired properties are also achieved. Finally, other issues regarding the technology limitations of present methods for fabricating PCNFs, research challenges, and future trends are also discussed.