Efficient energy storage capabilities promoted by hierarchical MnCo ₂O₄ nanowire-based architectures

A facile, two-step hydrothermal/calcination approach to grow uniform MnCo₂O₄ nanowires (NWs) on a binder- and conductive-agent-free nickel foam substrate has been demonstrated. The hierarchical MnCo₂O₄ NW-based architectures on a conductive substrate allow for enhanced electrolyte transport and charge transfer towards/from the MnCo₂O₄ NWs' surfaces with large numbers of electroactive sites. In addition, the direct growth and attachment of the MnCo₂O₄ NWs on the supporting conductive substrates provide much reduced contact resistances and efficient charge transfer. These excellent features allow the use of MnCo₂O₄ NWs as a lithium-ion battery electrode, with high capacity at a current density of 200 mA h g^-1, as well as a very good cycling stability. Moreover, these MnCo₂O₄ NWs have also demonstrated a high capacitive behavior for symmetric supercapacitor application, indicating the potential application of MnCo₂O₄ NW high-performance energy-storage devices.