Hydrothermal carbonization (HTC) is a novel method to produce carbonaceous materials, which has been extensively concerned because of its environmentally benign and simple process. This review aims to introduce the approaches and mechanisms of carbonaceous materials prepared by hydrothermal carbonization from biomass in recent years, and discuss the applications of the functional materials transformed from carbonaceous materials. Specifically, the utilizations of various biomass raw materials, including carbohydrates, lignocellulose, and other biomass waste for the production of biochar are discussed. The significant parameter influence and mechanistic aspects of the hydrochar are critically analyzed to better understand the hydrochar formation process. More importantly, recent advances in hydrochar utilization techniques are summarized. Finally, we envision that the ideal designs of the biomass-based functional carbonaceous materials will open up a novel family of functional carbon materials with various applications towards a green and sustainable future.

Graphical abstract