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article · Scientific Reports

Synthesis and characterization of magnesium ferrite-activated carbon composites derived from orange peels for enhanced supercapacitor performance

In plain language

Supercapacitors are efficient electrochemical energy storage devices, but transition metal oxides such as ferrites face limitations in energy density. Combining magnesium ferrite with activated carbon derived from orange peels through a simple hydrothermal method produces a composite electrode material that addresses these performance constraints. Comprehensive physical and chemical evaluations confirmed the structure and composition of the synthesised blends. Electrochemical testing showed that the composite designated as MF45-AC delivered a specific capacitance of 870 Farads per gram at a current density of 1.0 Ampere per gram within a potential window of zero to 0.5 Volts. Furthermore, the material demonstrated robust durability, retaining 95.1 percent of its initial capacitance after 5000 operating cycles. These results show that combining orange peel carbon with magnesium ferrite creates stable, high-capacitance electrode materials.

Key takeaways

  • Magnesium ferrite supported on orange peel-derived activated carbon was successfully synthesised using a simple hydrothermal method.
  • The MF45-AC composite material achieved a specific capacitance of 870 Farads per gram at a current density of 1.0 Ampere per gram.
  • The composite electrode retained 95.1 percent of its initial specific capacitance after 5000 cycles.
  • Using activated carbon from orange peels with magnesium ferrite helps overcome the low energy density typical of ferrite electrodes.

Why it matters

High-performance energy storage devices require durable and efficient electrode materials. Utilising agricultural waste, such as orange peels, to produce activated carbon offers a sustainable route to valuable functional materials. By pairing this biomass carbon with magnesium ferrite, the resulting composite delivers high electrical capacity alongside long-term stability, helping to improve the operating life and storage capabilities of supercapacitors.

Commercialisation angle

This work is relevant to manufacturers of supercapacitors and energy storage components seeking high-performance electrode materials. It shows that agricultural waste can be converted into functional materials for electronics. The research is at an early laboratory stage, having demonstrated material synthesis and basic cell cycling, meaning that substantial scaling, device integration, and economic testing would be required prior to commercial application.

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Abstract

Abstract Supercapacitors have emerged as highly efficient energy storage devices, relying on electrochemical processes. The performance of these devices can be influenced by several factors, with key considerations including the selection of electrode materials and the type of electrolyte utilized. Transition metal oxide electrodes are commonly used in supercapacitors, as they greatly influence the electrochemical performance of these devices. Nonetheless, ferrites' low energy density poses a limitation. Hence, it is crucial to create electrode materials featuring unique and distinct structures, while also exploring the ideal electrolyte types, to enhance the electrochemical performance of supercapacitors incorporating magnesium ferrites (MF). In this study, we effectively prepared magnesium ferrites (MgFe 2 O 4 ) supported on activated carbon (AC) derived from orange peels (OP) using a simple hydrothermal method. The resulting blends underwent comprehensive characterization employing various methods, including FTIR, XRD, TEM, SEM, EDX, and mapping analysis. Moreover, the electrochemical performance of MgFe 2 O 4 @AC composites was evaluated using GCD and CV techniques. Remarkably, the MF45-AC electrode material showed exceptional electrochemical behavior, demonstrating a specific capacitance of 870 F·g −1 within current density of 1.0 A g −1 and potential windows spanning from 0 to 0.5 V. Additionally, the prepared electrodes displayed exceptional cycling stability, with AC, MF, and MF45-AC retaining 89.6%, 94.2%, and 95.1% of their initial specific capacitance, respectively, even after 5000 cycles. These findings underscore the potential of MF-AC composites as superior electrode materials for supercapacitors. The development of such composites, combined with tailored electrolyte concentrations, holds significant promise for advancing the electrochemical performance and energy density of supercapacitor devices.

Research topics

  • Supercapacitor Materials and Fabrication
  • Advancements in Battery Materials
  • Advanced battery technologies research

Sustainable Development Goals

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DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-54942-9

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