Nitrogen-doped activated carbon flowers in aqueous supercapacitors

Abstract

This study examined the capacitive properties of hierarchical porous carbon materials in the form of flowers, which were produced through optimized thermal treatment of synthesized particles of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) polymer. The results show that the materials retain their original morphological shape after carbonization and activation, along with a high specific surface area and a significant content of nitrogen functional groups. Thanks to these properties, the materials exhibit high specific capacitance up to 100 F g-1 in 6 M potassium hydroxide aqueous solution, and the ability for rapid ion transport through the porous structure. Interactions of nitrogen groups with ions in aqueous electrolytes further contribute to Faradaic redox processes, thereby enhancing overall capacitive performance and increasing energy density. These materials utilize environmentally friendly and safe aqueous electrolytes, improving their sustainability and practicality for applications in modern supercapacitors. The obtained results indicate the potential of these materials for use in high-performance energy storage devices.