Formation of laser-induced porous graphitic carbon structures for high capacitance supercapacitors

The electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC) is an energy storage device distinguished by its relatively extended cycle life and rapid charge-discharge capabilities. Heightened capacitance of the EDLC aligns with an augmented specific surface area of the electrodes. In this study, we employed laser-induced graphitization of a biodegradable composite sheet containing NaHCO3 to fabricate a conductive porous carbon structures serving as EDLC electrodes. Pores were observed on the surface of the composite sheet containing NaHCO3 after laser irradiation. It is considered that the formation of pores, accompanied by gas generation from the thermal decomposition of NaHCO3, led to an increase in the specific surface area of the structures and improved capacitance. Our method extends the potential of environmentally compatible, plant-derived materials for device applications.