Metal oxide-based nanocomposites as advanced electrode materials for enhancing electrochemical performance of Supercapacitors: A comprehensive review

Abstract

In recent years, the escalating use of nonrenewable fossil fuels has emerged as a significant threat to global sustainability, prompting the need for renewable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly energy storage solutions. Supercapacitors (SCs) are notable for their high power density (PD), cycle stability, and swift charge/discharge rates, although they fall short in energy density (ED) compared to traditional batteries. The performance of SCs is greatly influenced by the electrode materials used, highlighting the importance of material innovation in tackling the challenges posed by increasing fossil fuel consumption. Transition metal oxides (TMOs), known for their redox activity in energy storage, have been thoroughly investigated for their exceptional specific capacitance, which ranges from 100 to 2000F g−1, surpassing that of electrical double-layer capacitors (EDLCs). TMOs such as ruthenium oxide (RuO2), manganese oxide (MnO2), nickel oxide (NiO), cobalt oxide (Co3O4), tin oxide (SnO2), zinc oxide (ZnO), tungsten oxide (WO3), and vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) are widely researched for their high theoretical capacitance, affordability, and longevity. This review emphasizes the groundbreaking potential of metal oxide nanocomposites (NCs) formed by combining them with graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and polymers, leading to synergistic enhancements in electrical conductivity, surface area, and charge storage capacity. This thorough review not only presents an in-depth analysis of current research but also sheds light on potential future developments, contributing to the ongoing progress in the field of advanced electrode materials for energy storage.