Waste toner derived Fe3O4 nanoparticles embedment into PANI matrix as an advanced electrode for supercapacitor

Abstract The advancement in the materials for energy storage devices that exhibits excellent energy and power density with prolonged cyclic stability are crucial for resolving energy crisis. This research work demonstrates the embedment of Fe3O4 nanoparticles into the polyaniline matrix with improved electrochemical performance and good retention capacity. Herein, the Fe3O4 nanoparticles has been derived from waste toner powder, effectively reduce environmental pollution by repurposing a harmful waste product. The PANI/Fe3O4 based electrode with an optimised ratio exhibits the specific capacitance of 831 F.g-1 at current density of 1 mA/cm2 in 3 M KOH electrolyte using three electrode configuration with commendable retention capacity. Additionally, the PANI/Fe3O4 electrode ultimately demonstrates the energy density of 166.2 W.h.kg-1 and power density of 5.0 kW.kg-1 at high current density of 5 mA/cm2 in 1 M concentration of KOH electrolyte. Eventually, the PANI/Fe3O4 based electrode exhibits a specific capacitance of 103.5 F/g at current density of 1 mA/cm2, when used as cathode in two-electrode configuration.