Synthesis and cyclic voltammetry of CrFe2O4/(MWCNTs)x nanohybrids

Abstract

The chemical co-precipitation route was opted for the synthesis of chromium ferrite (CrFe2O4) nanoparticles and the pristine multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were used for the preparation of desired CrFe2O4/(MWCNTs)x; x = 0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 wt% nanohybrids using the ultra-sonication method. Toluene was used for the first time as dispersive medium for the preparation of these nanohybrids. The crystalline structure, morphology, vibrational modes, and electrochemical performance of these nanohybrids were characterized by using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and cyclic voltammetry. The structural properties of pristine MWCNTs, CrFe2O4 nanoparticles, and CrFe2O4/(MWCNTs)x nanohybrids are evaluated by XRD and Raman spectroscopy. The SEM images presented the attachment of CrFe2O4 nanoparticles on the surface of MWCNTs. The specific capacitance was decreased with increasing number of cycles, while it was observed to be increased with increasing MWCNTs content. From EIS, the decrease in charge transfer resistance was observed with the increased loadings of MWCNTs, which showed the enhanced electrochemical behavior of these nanohybrids. Therefore, the significant improvement in electrochemical properties showed that these nanohybrids can be promising candidates for energy storage devices like lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries.