A flexible spiral-type supercapacitor based on ZnCo2O4 nanorod electrodes

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Fiber electrochemical capacitors offer advantages like light weight, flexibility, and cost-effective integration into electronic devices.
• Developing efficient and stable fiber electrodes is crucial for advancing wearable energy storage solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To prepare ZnCo2O4 nanorods on a Ni wire for use as fiber electrodes.
• To evaluate the electrochemical properties and performance of the resulting fiber supercapacitors.

Main Methods:

• A simple, single-step hydrothermal process was employed to synthesize ZnCo2O4 nanorods on a nickel wire.
• Electrochemical properties were analyzed using a two-electrode system, including capacitance, energy density, and power density measurements.
• Electrochemical stability was assessed under various bending conditions.

Main Results:

• The prepared fiber electrodes achieved a specific capacitance of 10.9 F g(-1).
• The supercapacitor demonstrated an energy density of 76 mWh kg(-1) and a power density of 1.9 W kg(-1).
• Remarkable electrochemical stability was observed during bending tests at various angles.

Conclusions:

• ZnCo2O4 nanorod-based fiber electrodes are promising for flexible and wearable energy storage applications.
• The simple hydrothermal synthesis method offers a viable route for producing efficient fiber supercapacitors.
• The demonstrated stability under mechanical stress highlights their potential for integration into electronic textiles.