Demineralization of a Carbon Material Derived from Palm Kernel Shells as a Process for the Enhancement of the Electrochemical Performance of Lithium-Sulfur Cells.

Carbon materials derived from biomass have been widely used in Li-S batteries; however, the mineral matter present in the biomass could impact the properties of the carbons and affect the electrochemical performance. In this study, the removal of mineral matter from palm kernel shells is reported to identify the effect of minerals on the physicochemical properties of the derived activated carbon and correlate them to the electrochemical performance in Li-S batteries. The content of minerals such as silicon, iron, and potassium was decreased by acid washing.