Characterization of nanocarbon based electrode material derived from anthracite coal

Abstract

Nanocarbon derivatives (NCD's) have wide range of scope in the field of sensors, supercapacitors and charge storage application. In the present study, anthracite is used as a precursor to synthesis nano-carbon derivatives. One of the important aspects of this study is to intercalate the synthesized NCD's with Li-ion to enhance its electrochemical and optical properties. The prepared NCD with Li-ion interface is used as an electrode material to study charge-discharge capacity and cyclic stability. The NCD shows a specific capacitance 65.4 mF g-1 and retention of capacitance after 200 cycles. However, adding small amount of supportive electrode material with NCD's enhances the capacitance after 160 cycles. The drastic increase in electronic conductivity of NCD's by adding supportive Li-ion permits the electrochemical activity of electrode material to be effectively utilized for practical applications.