High-efficiency CuO-CB6/Co-Al LDH nanocomposite electrode for next-generation energy storage

Abstract

Supercapacitors are a highly effective choice for energy storage applications. The high specific power, quick charge-discharge time, and inexpensive upkeep of supercapacitors have sparked immense interest in the energy industry and research. The advancement of high-quality supercapacitors depends heavily on the exploitation of composite electrode materials. This study involves the synthesis of cucurbit[6]uril-stabilized CuO nanoparticles (CuO-CB6 NPs) using a simple reduction method, which were then integrated onto cobalt-aluminium layered double hydroxide (Co-Al LDH) in three different ratios (1 : 1, 1 : 2, and 2 : 1) to create CuO-CB6/Co-Al LDH nanocomposites. The structural and chemical properties of the suggested nanocomposites are analyzed using various spectroscopic techniques. The electrochemical performance of CuO-CB6, Co-Al LDH, and CuO-CB6/Co-Al LDH nanocomposites is evaluated using CV, GCD, and EIS measurements. The electrochemical performance of the 1 : 2 CuO-CB6/Co-Al LDH nanocomposite reveals a notable specific capacitance of 1862 F g−1 at a current density of 0.45 A g−1. Electrochemical impedance analysis indicates a low charge transfer resistance value and thereby enhanced electrical conductivity for the nanocomposite. The 1 : 2 CuO-CB6/Co-Al LDH nanocomposite demonstrates significant long-term cycling stability, retaining 79% of its initial specific capacitance after 10 000 cycles at a current density of 7.27 A g−1. These findings suggest that the 1 : 2 CuO-CB6/Co-Al LDH nanocomposite exhibits improved electrochemical performance and can be used as an electrode material for supercapacitor applications.