Characterization of TiO2–MnO2 composite electrodes synthesized using spark plasma sintering technique

• TiO2–MnO2 composite electrode was synthesized through SPS technique.
• Maximum powder densification was obtained at about 1150 °C and 980 °C.
• Powder mixing method influenced metallurgical interaction during sintering.
• MnO2 addition to TiO2 resulted in secondary phase formation.
• MnO2 addition improved the electrochemical performances of the composites.

Titanium-manganese oxide composites as suitable material for electrode in electrochemical capacitors application was synthesized using spark plasma sintering technique. The feedstock powders were blended at varied compositions in a Turbula mixer through dry mixing with and without the alumina balls. The blended powders were then consolidated at a sintering temperature of 1200 °C with a constant pressure of 25 MPa and holding time of 5 min. The density, phase composition, microstructure, hardness and electrochemical stability of the resulting materials were investigated. Relative densities of 99.33% and 98.49% were obtained for 90TiO2–10MnO2 and 80TiO2–10MnO2 when ball was incorporated. The 90TiO2–10MnO2 powder mixed with balls had its Vickers hardness value increase from 924.4 HV to 998.2 HV. The electrochemical performance of the TiO2 was improved with the addition of MnO2.

SEM micrograph of sintered 90TiO2–10MnO2 (a) without balls (b) with alumina balls.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slide