A porous Co(OH)2 material derived from a MOF template and its superior energy storage performance for supercapacitors

Abstract

A novel method was explored to synthesize Co(OH)₂ using a Co-based metal–organic framework (MOF) as a template via a solid–solid conversion process in alkali solution. The MOF-derived Co(OH)₂ was proved to have a loose and mesoporous structure, which can provide good electrolyte penetration, shorten the ion transfer distance, and increase the contact area of the MOF-derived Co(OH)₂ and electrolyte. As a result, the as-made Co(OH)₂ exhibits superior electrochemical properties with high specific capacitance (604.5 F g⁻¹ at a current density of 0.1 A g⁻¹), excellent rate capability, and good cycling performance. The facile and eco-friendly nature of the strategy give it potential to be extended to other metal hydroxides with excellent electrochemical performances.