Enhancing the electrochemical performance of rGO-based ternary composite for next generation supercapacitors

Abstract

This work explores the rational design and synthesis of a high-performance ternary nanocomposite rGO/CeO₂/PPy, by incorporating cerium oxide and polypyrrole into the rGO matrix, through a hybrid approach of combining hydrothermal synthesis with in situ oxidative polymerization. Comprehensive structural characterization of the rGO/CeO₂/PPy composite confirms the successful integration of components, revealing a hierarchically porous architecture that optimizes both charge transport and ion diffusion kinetics. The ternary composite exhibits exceptional interfacial interactions, including π–π conjugation between rGO and PPy, coupled with electrostatic stabilization from CeO_2, resulting in enhanced mechanical integrity and improved electrolyte accessibility. Electrochemical characterization reveals remarkable performance metrics, with a specific capacitance of 874 F g⁻¹ and outstanding cyclic durability of 94% capacity retention after 5000 charge–discharge cycles at 1 A g⁻¹. The configured rGO/CeO₂/PPy//AC system exhibits exceptional energy storage performance, yielding an energy density of 39.6 Wh kg⁻¹ while sustaining a power density of 2859 W kg⁻¹. These outstanding characteristics underscore the material's suitability as a cutting-edge electrode for sophisticated energy storage systems, showcasing the benefits of strategic component integration in hybrid nanocomposite design.