Hexagonal Disk Structures Obtained during Carbonization of <i>Botryococcus braunii</i> Residues

Abstract

In this study, we report a two-dimensional (2D) hexagonal disk obtained by carbonization of Botryococcus braunii ( B. braunii ) residues. Carbonization at 700 ℃ followed by naturally cooling down to room temperature under a non-inert gas flow atmosphere affords to yield this unique structure. The 2D hexagonal disks consist of more than 52% carbon and more than 25% oxygen. Slight amount of Fe, silicon and magnesium would be the trigger of the formation of hexagonal structure. Treatment of biomass residue is a challenge in the near future accompanied by the achievement of new energy technology in the industrial level. This research points out that efficient use of discharged biomass residue could create a new avenue for material science. The morphology of obtained crystals carbonized in different conditions, especially with the existence of argon flow, was also investigated.