Encapsulated SnO 2 -PANi composite within porous PAN nanofibers as efficient electrodes for pseudocapacitors

Abstract SnO 2 nanoparticles, coated with conducting polyaniline (PANi) polymer, are entrapped within the channels of PAN nanofibers. This stimulates interconnected network of porous electrospun nanofibers. The confined geometry leads to lower electron transport pathways and improved conductivity. This makes these nanofiber structures useful for pseudocapacitors. The electrochemical measurements were performed in a 2 M KOH electrolyte. Amongst SnO 2 -PANi-based particles and nanofibers, the nanofibers shows higher response, with a specific capacitance of 125 F g −1 at 1 A g −1 current density. It also had a capacity retention of 100% after 1000 cycles at 5 A g −1 current density. Finally, a symmetric device could be assembled using SnO 2 -PANi nanofibers as electrode material. The device delivered a specific capacitance of 42 F g −1 at 1 A g −1 and 100% capacity retention after 1000 cycles. The excellent cycling stability and enhanced energy storage behavior demonstrate the potential of SnO 2 -PANi nanofibers as efficient and flexible anode materials for next-generation supercapacitor devices.