Researchers at Lampung University have made significant strides in the development of advanced materials for energy storage applications. In a recent study published in “Sustainable Chemistry for the Environment,” lead author Heri Rustamaji and his team explored the modification of hydrochar derived from palm waste to create nitrogen and sulfur co-doped activated carbon. This innovative approach aims to enhance the performance of supercapacitors, which are essential for efficient energy storage and delivery in various applications, including electric vehicles and renewable energy systems.
The research began with the creation of hydrochar from oil palm empty fruit bunches, a biomass waste product. Using calcium chloride as an activating agent, the team processed the hydrochar at 275 °C for 60 minutes. The next phase involved modifying this hydrochar through an impregnation method with thiourea, which was carried out for two hours. The researchers tested different ratios of thiourea to determine the optimal conditions for enhancing the material’s properties.
One of the key findings of the study was the impact of thiourea impregnation on the surface area of the activated carbon. As the impregnation ratio increased, the surface area varied between 151.57 and 234.56 m²/g, indicating a complex relationship between the modification process and the resulting material characteristics. This porosity is crucial for the performance of supercapacitors, which rely on high surface areas to store electrical energy efficiently.
In terms of electrochemical performance, the modified activated carbon demonstrated impressive results. The team achieved a maximum capacitance of 135.12 F/g at a current density of 0.5 A/g, which is a notable benchmark for supercapacitor materials. Furthermore, the energy and power densities reached levels of 3.4 Wh/kg and 202.6 W/kg, respectively, showcasing the potential for these materials in high-performance energy storage applications.
Durability is another critical factor for commercial viability, and the modified supercapacitor showed remarkable resilience. After undergoing a rigorous 5,000-cycle durability test, the device maintained a capacitance retention of 106% and a coulombic efficiency of 95%. This robustness indicates that the N, S co-doped activated carbon could be a reliable option for long-term energy storage solutions.
Rustamaji emphasizes the significance of their findings, stating, “The strategic incorporation of N, S-modification via thiourea engenders a qualitative enhancement within the supercapacitor’s performance domain.” This advancement not only highlights the potential for utilizing agricultural waste but also opens new avenues for the energy storage sector to explore sustainable materials that can meet growing energy demands.
The implications of this research extend beyond academic interest; they present commercial opportunities for industries focused on renewable energy, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient technologies. By leveraging biomass waste and enhancing material performance, companies can contribute to a more sustainable energy landscape while benefiting from innovative storage solutions.
As industries continue to seek efficient and environmentally friendly energy storage options, the work of Rustamaji and his team stands as a promising development in the quest for advanced supercapacitors.
