Development of novel paper-based supercapacitor electrode material by combining copper-cellulose fibers with polyaniline

Along with the developing of flexible electronics, there is a strong interest in high performance flexible energy storage materials. As natural carbohydrate polymer, cellulose fibers have potential applications in the area due to their biodegradability and flexibility. However, their conductive and electrochemical properties are impossible to meet the demands of practical applications. In this study, cellulose fibers were combined with polyaniline to develop novel paper-based supercapacitor electrode material. Cellulose fibers were firstly coordinated to Cu(II) and subsequently involved in polymerization of polyaniline. Not only the mass loading of polyaniline was significantly increased, but also an impressive area specific capacitance (2767 mF/cm2 at 1 mA/cm2) was achieved. The developed strategy is efficient, environmentally friendly, and has implications for the development of cellulosic paper-based advanced functional materials.