Search

Abstract Mesoporous ribbon-shaped graphitic carbon nanofibers (MRCNFs) have been prepared by combination of electrospinning technique, template method and catalytic graphitization of transition metal. Transition metal Co, originated from Co(NO 3) 2 ·6H 2 O doped in spinning solution, serves as both template of mesopores and catalyst for graphitic structure. The microstructure of MRCNFs has been optimized by adjusting doping amount of Co(NO 3) 2 ·6H 2 O. The resultant MRCNFs present a relatively centralized distribution of 2–10 nm mesopores, modest specific surface area of 463 m2 g−1 and pore volume of 0.575 cm3 g−1. In addition, considerable nitrogen- and oxygen-containing functionalities (2.88 at.% of N and 4.88 at.% of O) are detected on MRCNFs. In view of electrode materials for supercapacitors, as-obtained ribbon-shaped morphology, mesoporous structure, considerable surface heteroatom-containing functionalities and high graphitization degree synergistically enhance the electrolyte ion diffusion and electron conduction. In a three-electrode test system, the resultant MRCNFs electrodes exhibit high specific capacitance (228 F g−1 at 0.2 A g−1), rate capability (of 58% capacitance retention at 20A g−1) and excellent cycle stability(of 95% capacitance retention after 5000 cycles at 2 A g−1). Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Mesoporous ribbon-shaped graphitic carbon nanofibers (MRCNFs) have been prepared. • Co particles serves as template of mesopores and catalyst for graphitic carbon. • With SSA of 463 m2 g−1, MRCNFs present a capacitance of 228 F g−1 at 0.2 A g−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]