Exploring pseudocapacitive performance in Cr2CTx/NiFe2O4 composites: experimental insights†

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable and efficient energy storage systems has driven the development of advanced, durable, and cost-effective materials. This study introduces heterostructures of 2D Cr₂CT_x MXene and NiFe₂O₄, leveraging their synergistic properties, such as high conductivity, surface termination groups (–OH, –O, and –F), tunable surface chemistry, and rich redox activity. Comprehensive structural and morphological characterization confirms the enhanced functionality of Cr₂CT_x/NiFe₂O₄, which exhibits a remarkable specific capacitance of 1719.5 F g⁻¹ with 88% retention over 5000 cycles in a three-electrode system. Additionally, the asymmetric supercapacitor device demonstrates a specific capacitance of 486.66 F g⁻¹, an energy density of 97.66 W h kg⁻¹, and a power density of 1203.95 W kg⁻¹, retaining 94% of its capacitance after 5000 cycles. A plausible charge transfer mechanism in the composite is discussed, providing new insights into the synergistic Cr₂CT_x/NiFe₂O₄ heterostructures as high-performance materials for energy storage applications.