Ferrocene-labelled surfactants enhance the supercapacitor performance in PANI-PSS/nanocarbon layer-by-layer nanoarchitectonics electrodes

Abstract

Supercapacitors are devices that bridge the gap between traditional capacitors and rechargeable batteries, offering exceptional energy storage capabilities, rapid charge/discharge rates, long cycle life, and environmental friendliness. This study explores the development of neutral-aqueous supercapacitor materials using conductive polymers, with a focus on polyaniline (PANI) doped with anionic polyelectrolytes. Combining PANI with carbon nanomaterials through various construction processes, including layer-by-layer assembly, nanoarchitectonics is employed to create desirable nanostructures on the electrode surface. The introduction of a redox-active surfactant (ferrocene-labelled surfactant, FcCTAB) in the layer-by-layer assembly adds a unique dimension of redox activity, enhancing the electrochemical capacitance of the hybrid coatings. Through voltammetric, charge–discharge, and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM) measurements, we investigate the capacitive performance and dynamic mass changes during potential cycling. The study demonstrates that the integration of the redox moiety significantly improves capacitive performance in neutral solutions without compromising structural stability and cyclability. This approach synergistically combines nanocarbon materials, electroactive polymers, and the faradaic contribution of the electroactive surfactant, presenting a supercapacitor material with excellent performance with potential application in wearable devices for secure energy storage.