Sustainable Utilization of Waste Biomass: Pyrolysis Kinetics of Jujube Pits and Lithium Storage Behavior of Pyrolytic Carbon

Abstract

Exaggerated global efforts to endorse a circular economy for resolving environmental concerns along with high energy demand have enhanced interest for the valorization of waste biomass. This study investigates the sustainable utilization of waste biomass through the pyrolysis kinetics of jujube pits. Jujube pits are abundant agricultural byproducts with potential for energy generation and value-added material production. Pyrolysis kinetics elucidate the thermodynamic and kinetic parameters governing the decomposition process, crucial for optimizing pyrolysis conditions and product yields. By optimizing the pyrolysis kinetic parameters, we have thoroughly assessed the potential of jujube pits as biomass fuel, which exhibits a higher HHV (higher heating value) and low activation energy. After controlled pyrolysis, the tailored pyrolytic carbon exhibits excellent electrochemical stability and lithium-storage kinetics because of its microstructure and chemical composition. Additionally, the resultant pyrolytic carbon was employed for lithium-ion storage and delivered high specific capacity (166 mAh g −1 ) and an ultrastable cycling performance by retaining almost 100% Coulombic efficiency over 2000 cycles at 2 A g −1 . By elucidation of the pyrolysis kinetics of jujube pit waste and assessment of the electrochemical behavior of its derived carbon products, this study contributes to the advancement of sustainable practices in biomass utilization, contributing to the development of sustainable energy-storage solutions.