Conducting Polymers–Metal Chalcogenides Hybrid Composite: Current Trends and Future Prospects Toward Supercapacitor Applications

Abstract

Conducting polymers have grown in popularity as electrode materials in supercapacitors due to their polymeric mechanical structure and outstanding conductivity. Nanostructured conducting polymers, in particular, have been the focus due to unique properties such as higher surface area, shorter diffusion lengths for ion transport, and a high electrochemical nature. Nonetheless, the volumetric expansion of conducting polymer electrodes after long charge–discharge cycles reduces capacitance retention. Metal chalcogenides, on the other hand, are distinguished from other metallic compounds by their distinctive 2D structure, large theoretical capacities, abundant electrochemical active sites, and tunable shape, enabling them as a potential candidature when combined with conducting polymers to produce a composite material taking “material mutualism” to enhance the properties. Hence, the review focuses on recent advancement in the field of creating conducting polymers–metal chalcogenides composite for supercapacitors. It especially covers how nanoarchitecture, composition, and doping affect the electrochemical characteristics of these composites. A brief introduction of several synthesis procedures is also offered, which includes chemical approaches with and without templates or binder additives. Furthermore, noteworthy works on the fabrication of symmetric and asymmetric devices are highlighted.