Polysiloxane-functionalized graphene oxide paper: pyrolysis and performance as a Li-ion battery and supercapacitor electrode

Abstract

Exfoliated graphene oxide (GO) and polysiloxane were blended and pyrolyzed to synthesize free-standing SiOC–graphene composite papers. Characterization techniques reveal a layer-by-layer stacking of GO sheets and an increase in interlayer spacing due to the functionalization of SiOC with GO. This unique structure of the SiOC–graphene composite paper makes it suitable for energy storage applications in batteries and supercapacitors. A reversible electrochemical capacity ∼750 mA h g⁻¹ which is stabilized to ∼400 mA h g⁻¹ after 5 cycles was recorded when tested as a battery electrode. Also, a maximum specific capacitance of 75.72 F g⁻¹ at a current density of 6.7 A g⁻¹ was observed while studying its electrochemical performance as a supercapacitor.