Correlation between the pore structure and electrode density of MgO-templated carbons for electric double layer capacitor applications

• The correlation between the pore structure and electrode density was reported.
• Proportion of mesopores can be controlled by changing the ramp rate for annealing.
• Carbons obtained at a slow ramp rate showed a relatively large electrode density.
• MgO-templated carbons showed a good rate capability and life performance.

MgO-templated carbons were synthesized via calcination of trimagnesium dicitrate nonahydrate by heating to 1000 °C at several ramping rates, followed by acid leaching of MgO. The carbons obtained at a ramping rate of 1 °C min−1 exhibited a relatively large volumetric capacitance comparable to that of commercial activated carbons. In addition, they exhibited a better rate capability due to the presence of mesopores. Furthermore, the electrode densities were evaluated considering the pore volumes and void volumes between the carbon particles.