Activated Carbon Derived from Biomass-Waste Okra As High-Performance Electrodes for Use in Supercapacitors

The search for renewable, environmentally friendly, non-toxic and low-cost electrode materials possessing fast rate of electron/ion diffusion, top adsorption as well as tunable surface chemistry is greatly required for the growth of next-generation biocompatible energy storage devices [1]. In this study, a cost-effective, highly porous and environmentally-friendly carbon material was successfully developed from biomass waste okra (Hibiscus esculentum). Extensive characterization of the electrode material was achieved by employing various techniques. The material reveals distinct pore structures, surface areas and chemical properties, which were easily achieved by varying the activation agent/temperature. The optimized electrochemical performances especially in terms of improved capacitive performances and superior stability revealed by experimental results indicate the material’s potential applications as electrode for supercapacitors. The okra waste biomass-derived material’s beneficial capacitive properties make it a novel source of high-performance carbonaceous material electrode for supercapacitors application.