Synthesis and Characterization of Ag Based Flexible Paper Electrode for Energy Storage Applications

Abstract

The need for sustainable energy technology is fueled by the growing reliance on fossil fuels, which has resulted in significant environmental issues and resource depletion. Even though the use of renewable energy sources is growing quickly, reliable and effective energy storage systems are necessary for their successful implementation. Supercapacitors extended cycle life, high power density, and quick charge-discharge capability have made them attractive options. The creation of flexible and sustainable electrode materials by turning environmental trash into components with added value for energy storage applications is the main goal of this thesis. Co-precipitation was used to create silver oxide (Ag2O) nanoparticles, which demonstrated outstanding electrochemical performance, reaching a specific capacitance of 801 F·g⁻¹ at current densities close to 12 A·g⁻¹. A binder-free, three-dimensional, free- standing Ag-based flexible paper electrode was created by using natural fibers generated from banana peels as an inexpensive and renewable substrate for the direct development of Ag2O nanoparticles. The resultant LC/Ag2O composite electrode (1:1 ratio) showed outstanding cycle stability, low charge-transfer resistance, good rate capability, and a high specific capacitance of 623 F·g⁻¹. Ag2O was successfully formed and uniformly integrated inside the fibrous matrix, as validated by structural, morphological, optical, and chemical characterization utilizing XRD, Raman, UV-Vis, FTIR, and SEM. For next-generation flexible and wearable supercapacitor applications, the new flexible electrode architecture highlights a scalable and environmentally sustainable approach by providing effective ion transport and mechanical robustness.