8 - Metal oxide–carbon nanofibers based composites for supercapacitors and batteries

Abstract

Energy-storage devices are considered the backbone of a flourishing economy that fulfills societal demands for sustainable energy. Supercapacitors and batteries based on advanced nanomaterials are state-of-the-art energy-storage devices. The different electrochemical charge-storage mechanisms in the two devices leads to their different charging capabilities and discharge times. Supercapacitors and batteries face issues of low energy density and stability, respectively, related to material design and electrochemical performance. Thus, developing efficient electrode materials for advanced and sustainable energy-storage devices is an ongoing need. Carbon allotropes and metal oxides have been exploited as electrode materials for decades. These materials have limitations to their viability in practical devices, such as low conductivity and poor electrochemical performance. In this chapter, metal oxide–carbon nanofiber-based electrode materials and the improved performance they bring to supercapacitors and batteries are presented. The synthesis of these composite materials in addition to their performance and limitations is extensively discussed. This chapter also summarizes recent research and development on metal oxide–carbon nanofiber-based electrode materials, as well as their future perspectives.