Synthesis of Novel NiFe2O4 Nanospheres for High Performance Pseudocapacitor Applications

Abstract

Synthesis of monodispersed NiFe₂O₄ nanospheres by a simple method was reported. Structure, morphology and characterization of the nanospheres were performed using field emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and FTIR spectroscopy. Electrochemical properties of the prepared nano-spheres were studied in order to realize their suitability and susceptibility as an electrode material for supercapacitor applications. NiFe₂O₄ nanospheres showed a high specific capacitance of 122 F g⁻¹ and a great specific energy of 16.9 Wh kg⁻¹ at a high current density of 8.0 A g⁻¹. The maximum specific capacity of the nanospheres was even more, which can reach 137.2 F g⁻¹ at 4 A g⁻¹ of current density. The results showed an excellent long-term cycling stability for the NiFe₂O₄ nanospheres-based electrodes. The capacitance did not decrease, compared to the initial value during 100 galvanostatic charge-discharge cycles.