In a significant breakthrough for energy storage technology, researchers have unveiled a cost-effective method for fabricating NiCo-layered double hydroxide (NiCo-LDH) electrodes that could revolutionize supercapacitor performance. Led by Hiram Eli Torres Soto from the Instituto de Investigaciones en Materiales–Unidad Morelia at the Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, this innovative approach utilizes nickel inverse opal (Ni-IO) porous networks anchored on bakelite PCB substrates, sidestepping the need for traditional binders.
The study, published in the journal JPhys Materials, highlights how electrodeposition at a constant reduction potential allows for the precise growth of NiCo-LDH coatings on Ni-IO current collectors. This meticulous process not only enhances the electrochemical performance of the electrodes but also ensures their stability under extreme conditions. “Our findings demonstrate that a 67 nm thick LDH coating can achieve specific capacitance values ranging from 548 to 588 F g ^−1, which is remarkable for high current densities,” Soto explained.
What sets these electrodes apart is their impressive cycling stability. After undergoing 5000 charge/discharge cycles at a staggering current density of 150 A g ^−1, the electrodes retained 92% of their capacitance and exhibited a coulombic efficiency of 99%. Such durability is crucial for applications in the construction sector, where reliable energy storage solutions are increasingly in demand.
The research also reveals that electrodes with LDH thicknesses between 30 and 67 nm deliver exceptional energy and power densities, recorded between 49 to 65.7 Wh kg ^−1 and 26.4 to 128 kW kg ^−1, respectively. This performance at high current densities positions NiCo-LDH $@$ Ni-IO electrodes as viable candidates for integration into various construction technologies, including smart buildings and renewable energy systems.
As the construction industry leans towards more sustainable practices, the ability to harness high-performance supercapacitors could facilitate the development of energy-efficient structures equipped with advanced energy management systems. “The commercial implications of our research are profound, as these electrodes can enhance the performance of energy storage systems in buildings, making them not only more efficient but also more cost-effective,” Soto added.
This research paves the way for future innovations in energy storage, particularly in environments where space and efficiency are paramount. With the construction sector increasingly focusing on sustainability and energy efficiency, the implications of this study could lead to a new era of building design and technology.
For more details on Hiram Eli Torres Soto’s work, visit Instituto de Investigaciones en Materiales–Unidad Morelia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México.
