The formation of a nanocarbon from lignocellulose with a sea anemone appearance

A filamentous carbon nanomaterial having morphology, elemental compositions and growth conditions similar to those of a sea anemone was formed during pyrolysis of lignocellulose in the presence of water and sodium. We call the material “carbon nano-anemones” (CNAs). Well known carbon nano filamentous materials such as carbon nanotubes find extensive applications in electronics, hydrophobic coatings, catalysis and sensor technology. However, they are inert, non-polar, hydrophobic and surface chemical modification is often necessary before use. CNAs, on the other hand, contain oxygen, are reactive, polar and may be suitable, without modification, for applications e.g., catalysis, sensors.