Fabrication of Pd NPs-supported porous carbon by integrating the reducing reactivity and carbon-rich network of lignin.

The renewable resource as a major feedstock to prepare porous carbon has showed many advantages compared to fossil-based materials. This study proposes a new strategy to synthesize palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs)-supported porous carbon, utilizing both the chemical reactivity and the carbon-rich 3D network of lignin. The Pd NPs-supported porous carbons were prepared in one-pot synthesis, with Pd(NH3)2Cl2 as precursor, lignin as reducing and stabilizing agents of Pd NPs, nano SiO2 as hard-template, followed by carbonization and removal of the template. The results reveal a positive effect of Pd precursor dosage on the development and excellent texture of the Pd NPs-supported porous carbon. Accordingly, the synthesized porous carbon was proved to have large micropore volume and good micro-mesopore porous structure, revealing it a promising hydrogen adsorbent.