Quick synthesis of zeolitic imidazolate framework microflowers with enhanced supercapacitor and electrocatalytic performances

Abstract

Novel zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 (ZIF-67) microflowers were synthesized by a quick and simple method without using any template or surfactant. Enhanced specific capacitance (188.7 F g⁻¹ at 1 A g⁻¹) and good cycle stability (remaining at 105% after 3000 cycles) of the ZIF-67 microflowers are observed in aqueous KOH electrolytes, which could be ascribed to the high chemical and thermal stabilities, large BET surface area, and small ion-transport (OH⁻) resistance of the hierarchical microflowers structure. In addition, the as-prepared ZIF-67 microflowers exhibited good electrocatalytic activity toward the reduction of H₂O₂. The obtained sensor also presented good reproducibility, high stability and a wide linear range. This work suggests that ZIF materials would be promising candidates for potential applications in supercapacitors and electroanalysis.