Transformation of Ibuprofen- and Diclofenac-Loaded Organobentonites to Doped Carbons for Peroxide Production and Energy Storage

Abstract

Ibuprofen- and diclofenac-loaded organobentonites are thermally converted to carbon-decorated bentonites and probed as materials for supercapacitors and peroxide production. TGA shows a ~40% mass loss in an inert atmosphere and a ~2% further reduction in air, with the diclofenac-loaded sample showing slightly higher loss due to less stable surface groups. FTIR and Raman spectroscopies indicate similar surface groups and defect densities in the end materials, which are reflected in similar electrochemical responses. Capacitance values of around 20 F/g are measured when taking the whole mass, bentonite and carbon, into account, rising to a maximum of 805 F/g if only the carbon fraction is taken into account. Rotating ring–disk measurements reveal that the prepared materials show selectivity toward peroxide production when oxygen reduction is probed, reaching a 93% yield, making it an exceptional candidate for peroxide production.