Work

Wastepaper-derived porous carbon supported cobalt nanocomposites for all solid-state flexible supercapacitor

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: The conversion of wastepaper into high-value carbon materials has gained significant attention as a sustainable strategy for energy storage applications. Owing to its low cost, abundance, and intrinsic fibrous structure, wastepaper serves as an attractive precursor for carbon-based electrode materials. In this work, a novel electrode comprising cobalt nanoparticles and Co 3 O 4 embedded in wastepaper-derived porous carbon has been developed for use in a flexible all-solid-state asymmetric supercapacitor. The integration of cobalt nanoparticles and Co 3 O 4 introduces redox-active centres, which enhance the electrochemical activity of the carbon framework. Meanwhile, the interconnected porous and conductive carbon network enables rapid ion diffusion and efficient electron transport, synergistically improving the overall electrochemical performance. It delivers a high specific capacitance of 61.5 F g −1 , a power density of 5143 W kg −1 , and an energy density of 9 Wh kg −1 at a current density of 2.5 A g −1 . Furthermore, the device maintains outstanding cycling stability, retaining 82.86 % of its capacitance after 10,000 charge-discharge cycles. Practical applicability is confirmed through its ability to power a red LED, showcasing its potential in flexible electronics. This approach not only enhances the value of waste materials but also offers a sustainable route for developing high-performance, flexible energy storage devices. • Wastepaper converted into porous carbon for flexible supercapacitors. • Co NPs/Co 3 O 4 introduce redox centres enhancing charge storage capacity. • WP/Co-1.0 shows high capacitance (61.5 F g −1 ) and energy density (9 Wh kg −1 ). • Flexible solid-state device powers LED, proving real-world applicability.

Source: Journal of Power Sources

DOI: 10.1016/j.jpowsour.2025.239094

Authors: Shrabani De, Binod Raj KC, Gayani Pathiraja, Bishnu Prasad Bastakoti

Institutions: North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Language: English

Topic: Supercapacitor Materials and Fabrication

Subfield: Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Responsible consumption and production, Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,230