Structurally engineered MoS2@CuCo2O4 with palm-leaf morphology for button-type supercapacitor applications

In the field of materials science, a combined influence boosts the physicochemical characteristics of mixed materials more than those of their separate parts. This study aims to synthesize a binary MoS₂@CuCo₂O₄ nanocomposite, structurally resembling palm leaves, using a template-free hydrothermal method to investigate its synergistic effects. The composition and microstructure of the MoS₂@CuCo₂O₄ nanocomposite were characterized through various analytical techniques, proving effective creation and a notable synergy among MoS₂ and CuCo₂O₄. Electrochemical measurements indicated that the MoS₂@CuCo₂O₄ demonstrated a high specific capacitance of 640.2 Fg^-1 at 1 Ag^-1, with a capacitance retention of 78.4 % after 10,000 cycles. This performance significantly outperformed CuCo₂O₄ alone, which recorded a capacitance of 579.9 F g⁻¹ and a retention of 68 %. Moreover, when used in a button-shaped supercapacitor with a one-sided design, the MoS₂@CuCo₂O₄ nanomaterial showed a particular capacitance of 128.7 F g⁻¹ under a current flow of 1 A g⁻¹, and retained 78.4 % of its original capacitance after undergoing 10,000 cycles under a high current flow of 15 A g⁻¹. The device reached its highest energy storage capacity of 45.14 Wh kg⁻¹ at a power density of 781 W kg⁻¹. These findings imply that the MoS₂@CuCo₂O₄ nanocomposite can significantly advance electrode materials for supercapacitors by effectively harnessing synergistic effects. This research offers novel perspectives on the advancement of energy storage materials, setting a foundation for future breakthroughs in supercapacitor technology.