Novel hybrid nanocomposite based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/multiwalled carbon nanotubes/graphene as electrode material for supercapacitor

• A novel b-PEDOT/MWCNTs/rGO hybrid nanocomposite was prepared.
• The nanocomposite as electrode material for supercapacitor was studied.
• The nanocomposite could exhibit a specific capacitance of 225 F g−1.
• The synergistic effects of rGO, PEDOT and MWCNTs in the nanocomposite were studied.

The hybrid nanocomposite based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)/multiwalled carbon nanotubes/graphene was prepared by reducing the graphene oxide with hydrazine in the presence of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and the anchored poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) hollow spheres (b-PEDOT). The transmission electron microscope (TEM) images of b-PEDOT/MWCNTs/rGO nanocomposite reveal that the b-PEDOT and MWCNTs were sandwiched between layers of graphene sheets. The b-PEDOT nanoparticles act as spacers to create gaps between neighboring graphene sheets, resulting in a higher surface area compared to pure graphene. Furthermore, it shows a significant pseudocapacitance energy storage mechanism during the charge/discharge process. And the MWCNTs improve electric conductivity of the nanocomposite and contribute to a low equivalent series resistance (ESR). Utilizing this composite material, a specific capacitance of 225 F g−1 at a current density of 0.1 A g−1 has been achieved.

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