Bifunctional heterostructure ZnWO4@ZnO nanocomposite for high-performance electrocatalysis and supercapacitor applications

Abstract

Earth-abundant transition metal oxides (TMOs) represent a versatile class of electrode materials that excel in energy and environmental applications. Strategically incorporating additional metal oxides to form heterostructures significantly enhances electrical conductivity and cyclic stability, paving the way for better performance in energy storage and conversion technologies. In this study, we developed a ZnWO₄@ZnO nanocomposite heterostructure using a straightforward solid-state synthesis method, positioning it as a bifunctional electroactive material for supercapacitor and catalytic applications. Importantly, the heterostructure’s increased surface area allows for more active sites for electrochemical reactions, which can boost current generation. The synergistic interaction between ZnO and ZnWO₄ significantly enhances the electrochemical properties of the heterostructure, resulting in an impressive specific capacitance of 363 Fg⁻¹ and exceptional cyclic stability over 10,000 charge–discharge cycles. These results underscore the potential of this material in energy storage and conversion technologies, making it a compelling candidate for high-performance supercapacitor and catalytic applications.