Nanocomposites combining 2D WS2 and 1D polyaniline for enhanced high-performance supercapacitors

Abstract

The field of flexible energy storage is increasingly focusing on conductive polymers due to their inherent flexibility, high theoretical capacitance, and suitability for thin-film applications. Polyaniline stands out for its excellent capacitance and electrochemical reversibility. However, its limited cyclic stability has hindered its use in supercapacitors. To Address this, our study focuses on development of a hybrid nanocomposite that merges two-dimensional tungsten disulfide with polyaniline (WS2/PANI), that created through in-situ oxidative polymerization. Serving as an electrode material, it showcased considerable surface area and structural integrity, thanks to the electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonds between WS2 and PANI. The nanocomposite achieved a specific capacitance of 464 Fg−1 at a current density of 10 mVs−1, displaying outstanding stability and rate capability. Moreover, we have developed all-solid-state asymmetric supercapacitors using WS2/PANI/C, activated carbon (AC/C) and Na2SO4-saturated filter paper as the positive, negative electrodes and electrolyte, respectively. The constructed device exhibited an energy density of 12.9 Whkg−1, power density of 395 Wkg−1 and retained 67 % of its initial capacitance even after 10,000 cycles. The impressive electrochemical performance of this device braces the promising future for hybrid supercapacitor technology.