Graphene-based electrochemical supercapacitors

Graphenes prepared by three different methods have been investigated as electrode materials in electrochemical supercapacitors. The samples prepared by exfoliation of graphitic oxide and by the transformation of nanodiamond exhibit high specific capacitance in aq. H2SO4, the value reaching up to 117 F/g. By using an ionic liquid, the operating voltage has been extended to 3·5 V (instead of 1 V in the case of aq. H2SO4), the specific capacitance and energy density being 75 F/g and 31·9 Wh kg−1 respectively. This value of the energy density is one of the highest values reported to date. The performance characteristics of the graphenes which are directly related to the quality, in terms of the number of layers and the surface area, are superior to that of single-walled and multi-walled carbon nanotubes.