Hierarchical Hollow Carbon Particles with Encapsulation of Carbon Nanotubes for High Performance Supercapacitors

Abstract

A novel and sustainable carbon-based material, referred to as hollow porous carbon particles encapsulating multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) (CNTs@HPC), is synthesized for use in supercapacitors. The synthesis process involves utilizing LTA zeolite as a rigid template and dopamine hydrochloride (DA) as the carbon source, along with catalytic decomposition of methane (CDM) to simultaneously produce MWCNTs and COx-free H2. The findings reveal a distinctive hierarchical porous structure, comprising macropores, mesopores, and micropores, resulting in a total specific surface area (SSA) of 913 m2 g−1. The optimal CNTs@HPC demonstrates a specific capacitance of 306 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1. Moreover, this material demonstrates an electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC) that surpasses conventional capabilities by exhibiting additional pseudocapacitance characteristics. These properties are attributed to redox reactions facilitated by the increased charge density resulting from the attraction of ions to nickel oxides, which is made possible by the material's enhanced hydrophilicity. The heightened hydrophilicity can be attributed to the presence of residual silicon-aluminum elements in CNTs@HPC, a direct outcome of the unique synthesis approach involving nickel phyllosilicate in CDM. As a result of this synthesis strategy, the material possesses excellent conductivity, enabling rapid transportation of electrolyte ions and delivering outstanding capacitive performance.