Rational synthesis of novel π-conjugated poly(1,5-diaminoanthraquinone) for high-performance supercapacitors

Novel pi-conjugated poly(1,5-diaminoanthraquinone) (PDAA) is successfully synthesized using Ce(SO4)(2) with suitable redox potential through controlling polymerization temperature. The as-prepared PDAA under optimal conditions displays homogeneous submicron particles, excellent pi-conjugated structure as well as high conductivity (1.15 x 10(-3) S cm(-1)). Such unique features make the PDAA an ideal electrode material for electrochemical energy storage. As a supercapacitor electrode, the PDAA exhibits a high specific capacitance (406.3 F g(-1)), desirable rate performance as well as superior cycle life (9.3% capacitance loss after 20 000 cycles). This simple and cost-effective method without any external additives and stabilizers may provide valuable guidance for the rational preparation of other novel micro-nanostructure pi-conjugated conducting polymers.