Bipolar Supercapacitive Performance of N-Containing Carbon Materials Derived from Covalent Triazine-Based Framework

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Covalent triazine-based frameworks (CTFs) are explored for energy storage due to tunable properties.
• Nitrogen functionalization enhances electrochemical performance in electrode materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• Synthesize nitrogen-functionalized CTFs for supercapacitor applications.
• Evaluate the electrochemical performance and stability of these novel CTF materials.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of CTF-Py-600 and CTF-Py-700 using 2,6-dicyanopyridine monomer via ionothermal polymerization.
• Characterization of BET surface area, pore size distribution, and nitrogen content.
• Electrochemical testing in supercapacitor devices across different potential windows.

Main Results:

• CTF-Py-700 achieved a high BET surface area of 1999 m²/g and 14% nitrogen content.
• CTF-Py-700 demonstrated superior specific capacitance: 435 F/g (negative window) and 306 F/g (positive window) at 1 A/g.
• Exceptional cycling stability with no significant capacitance degradation after 15,000 cycles.

Conclusions:

• Nitrogen-functionalized CTFs are highly effective electrode materials for supercapacitors.
• The synergistic effects of high surface area, nitrogen content, and microporosity in CTF-Py-700 drive its performance.
• These CTFs represent a promising class of materials for advanced electrochemical energy storage solutions.