Optimizing the electrochemical properties of PPy/ZnO nanocomposites for supercapacitor electrode

This paper explores the in-situ oxidative polymerization, polypyrrole/zinc oxide (PPy/ZnO) nanocomposites with less than 10% ZnO nanoparticles and their feasibility studies for supercapacitor electrodes. Structural analysis via XRD revealed improved crystallinity and confirmed ZnO nanoparticle incorporation, with a particle size less than 20 nm. TEM images confirmed hexagonal nanoparticle morphology. Raman spectroscopy indicated shifts in characteristic peaks, suggesting nanoparticle incorporation and potential ring deformation. Thermogravimetric studies showed increased degradation temperature with ZnO addition, implying enhanced stability. Electrochemical studies demonstrated specific capacitance peaking around 100, with enhanced performance attributed to increased nanoparticle content. The energy and power densities PPy/ZnO increased with higher weight percent of ZnO. Dielectric analysis revealed fluctuating values of dielectric constant with frequency, increasing up to a threshold ZnO concentration before decreasing. AC conductivity studies further supported enhanced electrode properties with increased filler concentration.