Coconut kernel-derived activated carbon as electrode material for electrical double-layer capacitors

Carbonization of milk-free coconut kernel pulp is carried out at low temperatures. The carbon samples are activated using KOH, and electrical double-layer capacitor (EDLC) properties are studied. Among the several samples prepared, activated carbon prepared at 600 °C has a large surface area (1,200 m2 g−1). There is a decrease in surface area with increasing temperature of preparation. Cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge–discharge studies suggest that activated carbons derived from coconut kernel pulp are appropriate materials for EDLC studies in acidic, alkaline, and non-aqueous electrolytes. Specific capacitance of 173 F g−1 is obtained in 1 M H2SO4 electrolyte for the activated carbon prepared at 600 °C. The supercapacitor properties of activated carbon sample prepared at 600 °C are superior to the samples prepared at higher temperatures.