Effect of Mesopore Structure of Carbon Gel on Improving the Capacity of Electric Double-Layer Capacitors

Electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) store charge by adsorbing ions at the electrode-electrolyte interface, offering fast charge/discharge rates, high power density, minimal heat generation, and long cycle life. These characteristics make EDLCs ideal for memory backup in electronic devices and power assistance in electric and hybrid vehicles. However, their energy density is lower than that of batteries, necessitating improvements in electrical capacity and potential. Traditionally, activated carbon with a high specific surface area has been used, but recent research focuses on mesoporous carbon materials for better ion diffusion. This study uses resorcinol-formaldehyde-carbon cryogel (RFCC) with mesopores and organic electrolytes with a wider electrochemical window. Various RFCCs with different pore sizes were synthesized and evaluated. Comprehensive investigations into the pore structures and surface properties of both synthesized carbon gels and commercial mesoporous materials were conducted. EDLCs with organic electrolytes were fabricated, and their electrochemical performance was analyzed. Findings indicate that mesoporous carbon gels significantly enhance capacity in high-rate charge-discharge cycles due to improved ion diffusion, highlighting their potential in optimizing EDLC performance.