Electrochemical properties of composites containing small carbon nano-onions and solid polyelectrolytes

Abstract

The preparation and electrochemical properties of a novel type of composite made of small carbon nano-onions (CNOs) with poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDDA) or chitosan (Chit) were investigated by cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Composite films on glassy carbon electrode surfaces were deposited by a coating method, applying a drop of solution containing the suspended CNOs and filler, PDDA or Chit. Composites form relatively porous structures on the electrode surface and exhibit typical capacitive behavior, as well as excellent mechanical and electrochemical stability over a wide potential window, from +600 to −600 mV. The capacitance of the films is primarily related to the amount of CNOs incorporated into the layer of the filler. The capacitance ranges between 20 and 30 F g⁻¹ of incorporated CNOs. The composites also show a low relaxation time from resistive to capacitive behavior, therefore indicating that they can operate as capacitors in short time windows.