Synergistic design of an NiCo@BC–MOF derivative for enhanced energy storage and photocatalytic applications

Abstract

Next-generation energy storage systems demand the development of advanced functional materials. This study synthesizes an NiCo@BC–MOF derivative via a hydrothermal route using a 2,5-dihydroxyterephthalic acid ligand. This emerging approach reduces the MOF intrinsic conductivity and enhances structural stability due to synergistic MOF and biochar interactions. The prepared NiCo@BC–MOF exhibited a specific capacitance of 444.44 F g⁻¹ at 0.8 A g⁻¹, which decreased to 322 F g⁻¹ at higher current density. Furthermore, energy and power densities of 31.96 Wh kg⁻¹ and 287.64 W kg⁻¹ were also recorded. In addition to electrochemical testing, the material was further identified as a photocatalyst. A pronounced degradation efficiency of 90.1% was achieved for the NiCo@BC–MOF derivative under optimal conditions (pH = 5, catalyst dose = 0.05 g L⁻¹, temp. = 45 °C, and AMX conc. = 50 ppm). The reaction followed pseudo-second-order kinetics and the composite showed good cyclic stability over initial three cycles.