Mechanochemically Activated Carbon for Achieving CO₂ Chemisorption under Mild Conditions without Chemical Treatment.

Abstract

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) sequestration technology is a promising strategy for mitigating the effects of global warming. Finding a CO₂ sequestration strategy with sustainable materials under mild conditions without chemical treatment is crucial. In this context, carbon materials offer great potential owing to their availability and renewability. However, their CO₂ adsorption capacity is generally limited by weak physisorption. Herein, we introduce a mechanochemical strategy to unlock the chemisorption capacity of carbon materials without chemical treatment. Through a facile and eco-friendly ball-milling process, it achieves a remarkable CO₂ adsorption capacity of 7.8 mmol g^-1, which is 4.8 times greater than that of conventional physisorption (1 bar, 25 °C). The mechanochemically induced high-energy dangling bonds enable CO₂ chemisorption, yielding lactone-rich carbons with minor quinones and ethers. Our strategy offers a straightforward approach for the environmentally sustainable sequestration of substantial CO₂, and it promotes the development of a circular carbon economy.