Hydrothermal regulation of hierarchical Al-doped nickel-cobalt layered double hydroxide nanoneedle arrays for hybrid supercapacitors

Abstract

Nickel-cobalt-based (NiCo) supercapacitors have garnered widespread attention owing to their high rate performance, safety, and low cost. However, conventional NiCo-layered double hydroxide (LDH) materials often exhibit low electrical conductivity, structural instability, and a limited number of exposed active sites. To address these issues, a reaction-time-controlled hydrothermal strategy was utilized to regulate the growth of an aluminum-doped nickel-cobalt LDH, enabling the formation of flower-like microstructures composed of interconnected nanoneedle arrays with improved ion-transport pathways and electrochemical performance. Notably, Al doping expanded the interlayer spacing, which facilitated rapid ion diffusion and improved the rate capability and charge–discharge efficiency. The electrochemical performance of the assembled device, including energy density, power density, and cycling stability, was systematically studied. Moreover, device-level optimization was achieved using strategies to widen the operating voltage window in asymmetric supercapacitors. The feasibility of the device was further supported by powering a light-emitting diode, electronic watch, calculator, and small electric fan, confirming its stable output performance.

Graphical abstract

Keywords

Nickel-cobalt-aluminum LDH / hydrothermal synthesis / interlayer spacing / hierarchical nanostructures / hybrid supercapacitors

References

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