Monomicelle-Directed Synthesis of Mesoporous Carbon Nanomaterials for Energy Storage and Conversion

Mesoporous carbon materials have attracted much attention in a wide range of applications due to their fascinating properties, including high surface areas, large pore sizes, good conductivity, and easy functionalization. In this review, the synthesis of mesoporous carbon nanomaterials via the monomicelle-directed assembly route, where mechanisms and determining factors are highlighted in detail is first summarized. Following the rational functionalization and pore engineering, the applications of mesoporous carbon nanomaterials in energy conversion and storage devices are discussed. Finally, the extant challenges are pointed out and a brief outlook on both synthesis and applications of advanced mesoporous carbon nanomaterials is also discussed. Conventional mesoporous carbon materials possess interconnected pore networks, large surface areas, and abundant active sites. However, their bulk sizes hinder the growing demands for applications in energy storage and conversion. In this review, the monomicelle-directed assembly strategy for fabricating mesoporous carbon nanomaterials, as well as their morphology manipulation, functionalization, and electrochemical applications, is summarized. image