Carbon Nanomaterial from Watermelon Skin Waste for Parallel Plate Capacitor Dielectric Material

Watermelon skin waste, typically underutilized, holds potential as an eco-friendly and efficient carbon nanomaterial for parallel-plate capacitor dielectric filler. The need for efficient and environmentally friendly dielectric materials drives the exploration of alternative resources. This study examines the potential of watermelon rind waste to be converted into promising carbon nanomaterials as dielectric materials in parallel plate capacitors, potentially overcoming challenges in the development of energy storage devices. This study synthesizes carbon nanomaterials from watermelon skin waste and evaluates their role as filler on the capacitance of the parallel-plate capacitor. Carbonization techniques of Two-Steps Low Heating (TSLH) method were employed with characterizations via PSA, XRD, and UV-Vis revealing nanoparticle properties, amorphous patterns, and UV absorption peaks. Capacitance testing using an LCR meter demonstrated significant capacitance enhancement, reaching a maximum capacitance of 63 µF with a five-layer carbon-based dielectric material modification using HCl solution. These findings suggest watermelon skin-derived carbon nanomaterials as a viable eco-friendly alternative for energy storage, supporting sustainability, and waste management.