In situ growth of Fe-MOFs in the matrix of single-walled carbon nanohorns to synthesize hierarchical Fe2O3@C/SWCNH composite for supercapacitors

Abstract

The hierarchical Fe₂O₃@C/SWCNH composite has been synthesized through in situ growth of iron-based metal organic frameworks (Fe-MOFs) in the matrix of single-walled carbon nanohorns (SWCNHs) using solvothermal method and high temperature calcination process. Compared with Fe₂O₃@C, SWCNHs, and previously reported Fe₂O₃/C-based electrode materials, Fe₂O₃@C/SWCNH composite displays superior electrochemical performance, exhibiting a high specific capacitance of 293.9 F/g at the current density of 0.5 A/g and superior rate capability. After 1000 cycles of charge–discharge cycles at the current density of 1 A/g, 80.6% of the specific capacitance is retained, showing good long-term cycling stability. The excellent electrochemical performance is attributed to the hierarchical porous structure of the composite, and synergistic effect of electrical double-layer capacitor and pseudocapacitor arising from SWCNHs and Fe₂O₃@C, enabling Fe₂O₃@C/SWCNH composite a promising candidate for energy storage applications.