Biomass-derived activated carbons with extremely narrow pore size distribution via eco-friendly synthesis for supercapacitor application. (October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kanjana, Kotchaphan; Harding, Phimphaka; Kwamman, Tanagorn; Kingkam, Wilasinee; Chutimasakul, Threeraphat
• Is Part Of: Biomass and bioenergy. Volume 153(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Subjects: Biomass energy -- Periodicals; Biomass -- Periodicals; Energy-Generating Resources -- Periodicals; Bioénergie -- Périodiques; 333.9539
• DOI: 10.1016/j.biombioe.2021.106206
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0961-9534

Abstract

Abstract: Activated carbons (ACs) are promising materials for supercapacitor application. The production process is however still considered expensive and environmentally harmful due to using harsh chemicals under aggressive conditions. In this research, ACs have been prepared from rubber seed shell (RSS), durian shell (DS) and palm petiole (PP) via an eco-friendly self-activation method with KOH activating agent. The chemical, morphological and textural properties of the carbonaceous materials were studied using various characterization techniques: FTIR, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, FESEM-EDS and BET. The electrochemical behaviors of the AC-based supercapacitor electrodes were examined by CV, GCD and EIS. The highest specific surface area (436 m 2 g −1 ) and specific capacitance (178 F g −1 ) were obtained from PP and DS activated carbons, respectively. The high specific capacitance ( C p ) of the DS activated carbon was attributed to its extremely narrow pore size distribution and the presence of excellent charge storage and charge transfer balance. The C p values obtained are comparable to those reported in the literature; therefore, this study successfully demonstrated a better route to produce an AC-based supercapacitor electrode. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: ACs were prepared from rubber seed shell, durian shell and palm petiole via KOH self-activation method. The maximum specific surface area was given by a PP activated carbon with the value of 436 m 2 g −1 . The highest specific capacitance ( C p ) of 178 F g −1 was given by a DS activated carbon. The high C p was due to the extremely narrow pore size distribution and the excellent charge storage and transfer balance.