Pseudocapacitive material for energy storage application: PEDOT and PEDOT:PSS

Abstract

The total volume of solar energy reaching the earth in every second is equivalent to the total energy usage by the entire human race for three days. With this vast amount of clean energy freely available to humanity, there is still heavy dependence on fossil resources for energy. The major challenge with the use of fossil-based fuel is the generation of both land and atmospheric pollutants, which adversely affect the ecosystem. However, an essential requirement in transitioning from fossil energy to clean energy is the use of effective energy storage systems. Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and poly(4-styrene sulfonate) (PSS) PEDOT:PSS is currently one of the highly researched semi-conducting polymers that form the vast and expanding literature on energy application. Owing to its high electrical conductivity, thermal stability, and film-forming ability, PEDOT and its derivatives are employed for pseudocapacitive storage applications. This review will present a detailed discussion on the synthesis, properties, and application of PEDOT:PSS for battery and ultracapacitors. Highlights on the recent development and outlook in the use of PEDOT and its derivatives for energy application will also be provided.