High electrochemical performance of carbon black-bonded carbon nanotubes for electrode materials

Carbon–carbon nanocomposites were prepared by the chemical reduction of strongly oxidized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (O-MWNTs) and acid-treated carbon blacks (A-CBs). To apply the electrode materials, the electrochemical performance of the MWNTs–CBs was examined as a function of the CB content. The chemically converted MWNTs–CBs were formed successfully by physical interaction during the reduction of the functional groups of O-MWNTs and A-CBs, resulting in the conjugation of CBs onto the MWNT surface with a high aspect ratio. The electrical properties of the MWNTs increased with increasing CB content, resulting from the condensed MWNT networks by the CBs deposited on the MWNTs. In addition, MWNTs–CBs showed higher current density than the pristine MWNT alone. This suggests that the incorporation of CBs onto MWNTs could have a compacting effect on the empty pores in MWNT networks, leading to MWNTs-based electrodes with enhanced electrochemical performance.

Graphical abstractThe scheme described the compacting effect of carbon blacks deposited onto MWNTs to enhance electrical and electrochemical properties of MWNTs.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► We fabricated carbon–carbon composites as electrode materials for supercapacitor. ► MWNTs–CBs composites were prepared by chemical reduction of each oxidized carbons. ► Decorated CBs led to enhanced electrical and electrochemical performance of MWNTs. ► It was due to the compacting effect of CBs on empty space of MWNT networks.