Aloe vera-assisted synthesis of MnCo2O4 as a battery-type material for hybrid supercapacitor applications
Abstract
Material advancement in sustainable energy storage is increasingly driven by green chemistry approaches. In this context, we have investigated an Aloe vera-mediated synthesis route for MnCo2O4 nanostructures as a battery-type electrode material for hybrid supercapacitor applications. The material was synthesized via an eco-conscious, biogenic route using Aloe vera gel as a natural reducing and stabilizing agent. High-resolution synchrotron XRD and TEM analyses confirmed the formation of single-phase spinel nanocrystals with an average size of ∼12.7 nm, while FESEM revealed aggregated mesoporous clusters indicative of secondary particle formation. BET analysis demonstrated a moderate specific surface area of 43.27 m2 g−1 and a dominant pore size around 10 nm, supporting rapid ion transport and efficient electrolyte access. XPS spectra revealed the coexistence of Mn3+/Mn4+ and Co2+/Co3+ oxidation states, along with abundant oxygen vacancies and/or oxygen interstitials, collectively contributing to enhanced redox kinetics and charge storage capability. The material exhibited excellent electrochemical performance, delivering a high specific capacitance of 680 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and retaining 282.7 F g−1 even at 80 A g−1 and 365.7 F g−1 at a high scan rate of 200 mV s−1. Furthermore, it showed remarkable long-term stability, with 84.5% capacitance retention after 5000 cycles. These findings establish the Aloe vera-derived MnCo2O4 as a green-engineered, high-rate capable, and durable electrode material for hybrid supercapacitor applications.

Please wait while we load your content...