Low-cost bio-graphene made from agriculture residues for electric batteries

Lead Applicant: Manjusri Misra

Research Priority: Sustainable Production Systems

Program Type: Tier 1

Funding Cycle: 2024/2025

Research Centre: NA

Research Summary: A primary challenge in utilizing conventional graphene derived from fossil resources in batteries is the prohibitive production cost, which hinders exploiting its technological benefits for energy storage and conversion. The proposed research targets creating the world’s cheapest graphene materials (bio-graphene) from Ontario agricultural residues, such as soy hull and wheat straw, for manufacturing advanced electric vehicle batteries. The chosen biomasses will be graphitized with plastic wastes from agricultural activities (e.g., seedling trays, mulch films, vine clips) via catalytic pyrolysis at very high temperatures between 1500-3000 oC to achieve more than 95% of graphitic content. The obtained graphitic biocarbon will be converted into bio-graphene employing high-frequency sonication as a green synthesis approach. The bio-graphene, with desired physicochemical properties, will be explored as the high-performance anode material for lithium-ion batteries. This will enable Ontario to grow into a global leader in bio-graphene production and strengthen the local bio-economy.