Enhancing the electronic conductivity of Lignin-sourced, sub-micron carbon particles

This paper presents electronic conductivity measurements from three different types of sub-micron scale carbon nanoparticles, each of which is sourced from Lignin. The particles are synthesized using a combination of hydrothermal and high-temperature processing steps involving suitable catalysts. The synthesis parameters are found to have an impact on the extent of graphitization within the carbon particles. Furthermore, an increasing graphitic content is found to result in higher electronic conductivities, which is an essential attribute in their potential application as environmentally-friendly lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery anodes.