Biomass-derived carbon materials for hydrogen Storage: Challenges and future perspectives

• Biomass-derived carbon materials (BCMs) offer potential for efficient hydrogen storage. • Various synthesis methods enhance BCM properties for optimized hydrogen storage. • Factors influencing BCM properties during synthesis and post-treatment are presented. • Challenges in scalability, stability, and cost-effectiveness are also discussed. Hydrogen is a promising energy carrier for a sustainable and carbon-free future due to its high energy density and zero emissions. However, developing efficient, safe, and economical hydrogen storage systems remains a key challenge. Biomass-derived carbon materials (BCMs) have garnered significant attention due to their renewable origin, high surface area, and tunable porosity. This review summarizes recent progress in the synthesis and modification of BCMs for hydrogen storage applications. Carbonization techniques, including pyrolysis, hydrothermal treatment, molten-salt treatment, and ionothermal processes, are analyzed for their effects on the physicochemical properties of BCMs. Factors affecting pore structure, surface functionality, and adsorption behavior are systematically discussed, along with surface functionalization methods designed to enhance hydrogen uptake. Uniquely, this review establishes a direct relationship between synthesis parameters, structural characteristics, and hydrogen adsorption performance of BCMs, providing a novel framework for understanding structure–property-performance correlations. This perspective offers new insights into the rational design of cost-effective, sustainable hydrogen storage materials. Remaining challenges related to scalability, structural stability, and cost are identified, and future research directions are proposed to advance the practical implementation of BCMs in hydrogen storage technologies.