Synthesis of PPy/CeO2 nanocomposites for supercapacitor application

Abstract

Polypyrrole is synthesized by the chemical oxidation polymerization method with K₂Cr₂O₇ as an oxidant, and H₂SO₄ as a dopant. This method was effective, as indicated by the large yield of PPy/CeO₂ (Polypyrrole/Cerium oxide) nanocomposite produced during synthesis. FT-IR spectra demonstrated the chemical interactions between PPy and CeO₂ nanoparticles. The prepared polypyrrole and polypyrrole nanocomposites were studied through structural and optical studies using XRD and UV-Vis analysis. Average crystalline sizes of PPy and PPy/CeO₂ nanocomposites are found to be 10.4 and 8.84 nm. The electrical conductivity of polypyrrole is lower than that of polypyrrole nanocomposite, which could be attributed to the inadequate hydration water as well as the surface conductivity carried through the thin polymer layer. In comparison to n-CeO₂PPy (433 F/g) and PPy (226 F/g) at the scan rate of 100 mV/s, the electrochemical measurements demonstrated that the fabricated electrode of n-CeO₂PPy is a suitable electrode material and can improve the capacitive performance of supercapacitors due to its high capacitive value (433 F/g). Electrochemical studies showed that CeO₂PPy nanocomposites (n-CeO₂PPy) have improved specific capacitance and reduced impedance compared to PPy. These improvements can be attributed to the synergistic effects between PPy and CeO₂PPy nanocomposites, which facilitate efficient charge transport and ion diffusion.