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.