Recent Design and Synthesis Strategies for High-Performance Supercapacitors Utilizing ZnCo2O4-Based Electrode Materials

Abstract

ZnCo2O4 has emerged as a promising electrode material for supercapacitor applications due to its unique properties and potential for high-performance energy storage. As a transition metal oxide, ZnCo2O4 offers eco-friendly characteristics and favorable diffusion properties, making it an attractive candidate for sustainable energy storage systems. However, the poor conductivity and low surface area of ZnCo2O4 have posed challenges for its optimal utilization in supercapacitors. Various innovative approaches have been explored to overcome these limitations, including the development of ZnCo2O4 with different morphologies such as core-shell and porous structures. This review work aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of diverse synthesis methods employed in recent studies, including hydrothermal growth, solvothermal synthesis, wet chemical methods, and miscellaneous synthesis techniques, each offering unique advantages and influencing the properties of the synthesized materials. The synthesis conditions, such as precursor concentrations, temperature, annealing time, and the incorporation of dopants or additional materials, were found to play a crucial role in determining the electrochemical performance of ZnCo2O4-based supercapacitor electrodes. Core-shell heterostructures based on ZnCo2O4 exhibited versatility and tunability, with the choice of shell material significantly impacting the electrochemical performance. The incorporation of different materials in composite electrodes, as well as doping strategies, proved effective in enhancing specific capacitance, stability, surface area, and charge transfer characteristics. Controlled synthesis of ZnCo2O4 with diverse morphologies and porosity was crucial in improving mechanical strength, surface area, and ion diffusion capabilities. The findings provide valuable insights for the design and engineering of high-performance supercapacitor electrodes based on ZnCo2O4, and suggest exciting avenues for further exploration, including advanced characterization techniques, novel doping strategies, scale-up of synthesis methods, and integration into practical supercapacitor devices. Continued research and development in this field will contribute to the advancement of energy storage technologies and the realization of efficient and sustainable energy storage systems.