Progress in advanced carbon materials from wood charcoals

The study of wood charcoal utilization and development of advanced carbon materials from them has seen much activity in recent years. Efficient use of wood charcoal solves environmental and ecological problems by using wastes as raw materials. Progress in the research and utilization of wood charcoals, concerning the adsorption characteristics of wood charcoal, wood charcoal for environmental protection and advanced carbon materials from wood charcoals is summarized. Special attention is paid to advanced carbon materials from wood charcoal, such as: wood ceramics, wood oil adsorbents, electromagnetic interference shielding materials, electroconductive charcoal putty, titanium dioxide/charcoal composites, sintered charcoal, health care materials, soil modification materials, building materials, etc. The use of wood vinegar, a by-product of charcoal production, is also considered, such as for deodorizing incense, germicides, cosmetics, medical uses, food additives, agricultural chemicals, etc. Development of new advanced carbon materials from wood charcoal will produce many social, economic and ecological benefits.