Enhanced Energy Storage Performance through Controlled Composition and Synthesis of 3D Mixed Metal-Oxide Microspheres

Abstract

Binary transition metal oxide complexes (BTMOCs) in three-dimensional (3D) layered structures show great promise as electrodes for supercapacitors (SCs) due to their diverse oxidation states, which contribute to high specific capacitance. However, the synthesis of BTMOCs with 3D structures remains challenging yet crucial for their application. In this study, we present a novel approach utilizing a single-step hydrothermal technique to fabricate flower-shaped microspheres composed of a NiCo-based complex. Each microsphere consists of nanosheets with a mesoporous structure, enhancing the specific surface area to 23.66 m2 g−1 and facilitating efficient redox reactions. When employed as the working electrode for supercapacitors, the composite exhibits remarkable specific capacitance, achieving 888.8 F g−1 at 1 A g−1. Furthermore, it demonstrates notable electrochemical stability, retaining 52.08% capacitance after 10,000 cycles, and offers a high-power density of 225 W·kg−1, along with an energy density of 25 Wh·kg−1, showcasing its potential for energy storage applications. Additionally, an aqueous asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) was assembled using NiCo microspheres-based complex and activated carbon (AC). Remarkably, the NiCo microspheres complex/AC configuration delivers a high specific capacitance of 250 F g−1 at 1 A g−1, with a high energy density of 88 Wh kg−1, for a power density of 800 W kg−1. The ASC also exhibits excellent long-term cyclability with 69% retention over 10,000 charge–discharge cycles. Furthermore, a series of two ASC devices demonstrated the capability to power commercial blue LEDs for a duration of at least 40 s. The simplicity of the synthesis process and the exceptional performance exhibited by the developed electrode materials hold considerable promise for applications in energy storage.