Simple method to construct three-dimensional porous carbon for electrochemical energy storage.

A 3D porous carbon matrix with a high nitrogen content has been synthesized by employing particles of a nitrogen-enriched superabsorbent polymer (SAP) from the waste diapers of newborn babies. The derived material exhibits an ultrathin layered structure with interconnected pores and a large specific surface area. As it inherits the unique skeleton of the functional polymer from waste diapers, the resulting material (NSAPC-W) has been assessed as an inserting host anode with excellent ultralong cycling performance, as well as steady rate capability for both Li+ and Na+ ions in half cells. Furthermore, the unique structure imparts intimate structural interconnectivity, wide open channels for ion diffusion, and a large accessible surface area, as well as high structural stability, and opens up a wide horizon for electrochemical applications.