Facile fabrication of Fe-BTC/PANI/g-C3N4 nanocomposite for improving electrochemical properties of supercapacitors

Abstract

Escalating global energy demands and environmental challenges have intensified research efforts toward the development of advanced energy storage technologies. Supercapacitors (SCs) have gained prominence as potential energy storage systems because of their superior power density, rapid charge–discharge performance, and remarkable cycling durability. In this study, a novel hybrid nanocomposite electrode composed of Fe-BTC, polyaniline (PANI), and graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) (referred to as FPG) was synthesized for supercapacitor applications. The structural configuration and morphological traits of the FPG nanocomposite were thoroughly investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Brunauer−Emmett−Teller method. Electrochemical performance was evaluated through cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge-discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The FPG electrode exhibited a specific capacitance of 790 F/g at 1 A/g, significantly outperforming the individual components. Furthermore, the composite exhibited excellent cycling stability, retaining 92% of its initial capacitance after 1000 cycles. These enhancements are attributed to the synergistic effects between Fe-BTC, PANI, and g-C₃N₄, which improve conductivity, active surface area, and ion transport. These observations highlight the potential of the FPG nanocomposite to function as an efficient electrode material in high-performance supercapacitors.