Trapping precursor-level functionalities in hierarchically porous carbons prepared by a pre-stabilization route for superior supercapacitors

Versatile module design of precursor networks enables flexible functionalization of nano-carbon elec-trode materials to meet the adaptable energy-storage demand. Functionalized heterogeneous networks are more likely to decompose by swift temperature programming together with predesign module re-moval, so high functionality/network transfer from precursor to carbon is still a work in progress. A pre-stabilization route is proposed here to enhance the network strength at early pyrolysis and pin up precursor-level functionalities on the final carbon. Such strategy successfully fixes more electroactive N (4.28 -8.86 wt%) into the resultant carbon microspheres compared with non-pretreated carbon (2.89 wt%), as well as achieves broad ion-accessible platforms of 1575-2269 m2/g with preset structural su-periorities. As a result, a typical acidic device reveals an outstanding specific capacitance of 383 F/g at 10 mV/s. Taking advantage of a novel LiNO3-PAM polymer electrolyte, the upgraded symmetric device dis-plays the maximum specific capacitance of 229 F/g, along with a boosted energy density of 41.1 Wh/kg at 643.4 W/kg. This work opens up a feasible insight into realizing highly efficient precursor/electrode design toward superior system with outstanding energy/power feature and temperature applicability (c) 2023 Published by Elsevier B.V. on behalf of Chinese Chemical Society and Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences.

Automated summary

The versatile module design of precursor networks allows for flexible functionalization of nano-carbon electrode materials to meet adaptable energy storage demands. However, the transfer of functionality and network from precursor to carbon is still a work in progress. To enhance network strength and preserve precursor-level functionalities, a pre-stabilization route has been proposed. This approach successfully fixes more electroactive nitrogen into the resulting carbon microspheres compared to non-pretreated carbon, leading to increased ion-accessible platforms and superior energy storage performance.