Electrospun synthesis of polyaniline and titanium dioxide nanofibers as potential electrode materials in electrochemical hydrogen storage

To meet the imperative of advancing sustainable energy, prioritizing storage systems for clean energy, such as hydrogen, is crucial. However, challenges exist in hydrogen storage, and focusing on nanofibers that incorporate appropriate nanoparticles emerges as a promising approach to enhance storage capacity. In this study, polyaniline/polyvinyl alcohol (PANI/PVA) nanofibers and polyaniline/polyvinyl alcohol/titanium dioxide (PANI/PVA/TiO2) nanofibers were synthesized using the electrospinning method under constant conditions. After characterization of the nanofibers by various techniques, the nanocomposites were used as novel electrode materials for a first time for electrochemical hydrogen energy. Electrochemical tests were conducted on the synthesized nanofibers, and an optimal current of 1.5 mA was determined. The electrochemical analyses obtained revealed a significant improvement in the maximum hydrogen storage capacity with the presence of TiO2 nanoparticles. It increased from 654.8 mAh/g for PANI/PVA nanofibers to 1250 mAh/g for PANI/PVA/TiO2 nanofibers. The difference in storage capacity is attributed to the addition of TiO2 nanoparticles.