Pickering emulsion fabrication and enhanced supercapacity of graphene oxide-covered polyaniline nanoparticles

Polyaniline/graphene oxide (PANI/GO) composites in a novel structure consisting of PANI nanoparticles covered by GO nanosheets are synthesized by means of Pickering emulsion polymerization for the first time. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra indicate the main combination mode of the PANI/GO composite includes hydrogen bonding and π–π interactions between PANI and GO. The TGA and SEM results indicate the PANI/GO composite has better morphology stability than that of pure PANI. And thus the specific capacitance and cycling stability of the PANI/GO composite have been remarkably enhanced. The improved electrochemical performance may be attributed to the GO sheets not only improve the stability of the PANI nanoparticles, but also increase electronic conductivity and reduce electrical charge transfer resistance of the PANI/GO electrode.

Research highlights
► The PANI/GO composite was prepared via Pickering emulsion polymerization.
► The composites consist of PANI nanoparticles covered by GO nanosheets.
► The GO sheets prevent the PANI nanoparticles from swelling and shrinking.
► The GO sheets increase electronic conductivity and reduce internal resistance.
► The composites exhibit higher specific capacitance and better cycling stability.