Electrospun polyacrylonitrile carbon nanofibers as electrode material for supercapacitors: A review

What is it about?

Supercapacitors (SCs) are attracting a significant amount of interest as energy storage devices owing to their higher specific power, rapid charging–discharging rate, and prolonged cyclic stability. Carbon-based materials are used frequently in SCs because of their excellent electric conductivity, stable chemical properties, and low cost. Electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN)-based carbon nanofibers (CNFs) have attracted much interest as they perform well electrochemically, have a large surface area, and show substantial mechanical characteristics; as well as having a high carbon yield among all polymer PAN. In this paper, an extensive review of the synthesis, characterization, and electrochemical performance of electrospun PAN CNFs is presented. An overview of the electrospinning procedure and properties of PAN CNFs that make them suitable for SC applications is presented. Various characterization methods, including transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and surface area analysis, have been carried out to evaluate the morphological, structural, and surface properties of PAN CNFs. The review also highlights the recent advances in modification and functionalization to enhance their electrochemical performance, including doping, surface functionalization, and hybridization. Galvanostatic charge–discharge experiments, cyclic voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy have been employed for electrochemical characterization. Finally, a comparative study between various carbon-based and electrospun PAN CNF electrode materials for SCs has been conducted. The review is concluded by discussing the challenges, opportunities, and possible future trends in the development of high-performance electrode material. This comprehensive review provides valuable insightful information on the design and optimization of electrospun PAN CNF electrode materials for SC applications.

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Photo by Harrison Broadbent on Unsplash

Photo by Harrison Broadbent on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This review underscores the crucial role of electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN)-based carbon nanofibers (CNFs) in supercapacitors (SCs). PAN CNFs exhibit superior electrochemical performance, including high conductivity and mechanical robustness. The comprehensive analysis covers synthesis, characterization, and modification techniques, shedding light on their suitability for SC applications. The comparative study with other materials enhances our understanding, addressing challenges and paving the way for optimized high-performance SC electrode materials. In essence, this review is pivotal for advancing SC technology and optimizing energy storage systems.

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