Characterization of Molecular Spacer-Functionalized Nanostructured Carbons for Electrical Energy Storage Supercapacitor Materials

Abstract

The use of molecular spacers between Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) has been shown to increase the ion-accessible surface area for use in supercapacitor materials. Maintaining porosity and electrical conductivity is important for maximizing capacitance, energy storage, and power. Two reported novel coordination complexes have shown exceptional Faradaic charge transfer and binding capabilities to prevent CNT aggregation. Dispersion stability measurements show less aggregation of HiPco Single Walled CNTs (SWCNTs) compared to other chirality and multilayered nanotubes. Cu2FcOH binds weakly to CNTs compared +2Zn2 and +2Ru2 due to Columbic electrostatic interactions, which is favorable because it does not collapse the electrical double layer as strongly as +2Zn2 or +2Ru2. Adsorption isotherms and a full characterization (1H NMR, ATR FT-IR, UV-Vis, CV) of these novel complexes are presented. Electrical characterization using CV, charge discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and the supercapacitor performance of functionalized thin film electrodes are presented as a function of spacer properties and nanostructured carbon tube diameter. This study uses rigid, earth-abundant coordination complexes that bind to and intercalate between SWCNTs. These functionalized nanostructured carbons are then used to make electrodes for electrical double layer supercapacitors. A complete description of the synthesis, characterization, and processing of these materials is described.