Work

Biomass-derived graphene oxide-doped mesoporous carbons for supercapacitors: performance and post-cycling characterisation

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Mesoporous carbons were synthesised from starch via the Starbon® methodology, a gelation-retrogradation process that avoids the use of templating agents and hazardous chemicals used for their removal. Graphene oxide (GO) nanoparticles were added to enhance conductivity and performance. Elemental analysis and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the carbonaceous, turbostratic nature of the produced materials, with nitrogen adsorption and scanning electron microscopy demonstrating the presence of multiple interconnected hierarchical pore networks spanning the micro-, meso-, and macroporous domains. Symmetrical supercapacitor cells were assembled with a 2M H 2 SO 4 solution electrolyte, demonstrating optimal performance at only 0.5 wt% GO, and achieving specific capacitances of ∼200 F/g and power densities of up to 6000 W/kg. Post-cycling characterisation of the electrodes following galvanostatic testing showed a more than two-fold increase in accessible pore volume and BET surface area, indicating the liberation of previously inaccessible porosity during operation. These findings highlight the potential of Starbon® -derived carbon nanocomposites as sustainable, high-performance supercapacitor electrodes and provide further insight into the evolution of carbonaceous electrodes during electrochemical cycling.

Source: Microporous and Mesoporous Materials

DOI: 10.1016/j.micromeso.2026.114086

Authors: M. Prieto, G.J. Ellis, E. Morales, V. Budarin, P.S. Shuttleworth

Institutions: Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas, Instituto de Ciencia y Tecnología de Polímeros, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid

Language: English

Topic: Supercapacitor Materials and Fabrication

Subfield: Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Responsible consumption and production

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,970