Dual function composite fibers of cellulose with activated carbon aerogel and carbide derived carbon

Abstract

Polymers of natural origin, especially cellulose, have risen to the focus of smart materials, and also energy storage materials' research as sustainable matrix alternatives. In this work, novel composites of cellulose with activated carbon aerogel (ACA) and carbide-derived carbon (CDC) are demonstrated. The composites were formulated as fibers from regenerated cellulose (Cell). The electromechanical response as linear actuation in stress and strain of the fibers was studied in an organic electrolyte at low applied potentials in range of 0.55 to À0.8 V. Cyclic voltammetry and square wave potential steps were performed revealing for both composite fibers expansion at positive charging. The Cell-ACA fibers showed a stronger response compared with Cell-CDC, largely due to the particle structure, reflected in higher electronic conductivity. The chronopotentiometric measurements showed that Cell-ACA also had the higher specific capacitance of the two of 47.5 F g À1 . The dual-function of Cell-ACA and Cell-CDC of electromechanical activity and energy storage capability can have potential in smart clothing applications.

Potential of Carbon Aerogels in Energy: Design, Characteristics, and Applications

“…Carbon aerogels, derived from the carbonization of organic gel products, are materials with an open porous sponge-like structure in which the liquid component of a gel has been replaced with air [ 11 , 12 ]. These organic gels are prepared from various organic precursors, such as resorcinol, cellulose, formaldehyde, and lignin, using the sol–gel method [ 13 , 14 ]. Carbon aerogels provide a 3D network structure with large surface area and high porosity, along with a stable configuration, making them suitable for energy storage applications.…”