Preparation of Graphene/N-Doped Carbon Nanohybrids and Their Application in Supercapacitors

Abstract

Nanocarbon hybrids have become an increasing interest in recent years because of their important role in energy storage and conversion device fabrication. The objective of this study is the preparation of low-cost graphene/N-doped carbon composites (G-NC) for supercapacitor applications. G-NC samples were prepared with a two-step hydrothermal method and characterized with field emission scanning electron microscopy, 77K nitrogen adsorption and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The electrochemical performance of samples was investigated with cyclic voltammetry and charge-discharge measurements in three-electrode configurations. Samples showed a sheet-type morphology and nanoporous structures. The nanohybrids had specific surface area of 350 m2g-1, delivered maximum specific capacitance of 103 F g-1 at 0.5A g-1 in 6 M KOH with good cycle stability. Low-cost G-NC nanohybrids with good electrochemical performance are promising for supercapacitor applications.