3D hierarchical porous Co1−xS@C derived from a ZIF-67 single crystals self-assembling superstructure with superior pseudocapacitance

Abstract

Designing the architecture of 3D metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) is fascinating, but challenging. Using a simple and reliable method called TECSA – Template-Engaged Crystal Self-Assembly, we efficiently produced 3D hollow superstructures composed of nanosized ZIF-67 single crystals (HU-ZIF-67S). These superstructures are durable, withstanding sulfidation and pyrolysis when making a functional Co_1−xS@C composite, HPHU-Co_1−xS@C. The composite exhibits a superior pseudocapacitance performance as a cathode material for supercapacitors. Significantly, this study enables the rational assembly of 3D MOF superstructures and provides a real path to fabricate sophisticated MOF derivatives.