Graphene foam functionalized with electrodeposited nickel hydroxide for energy applications

• Ni(OH)2 has been incorporated in 3D graphene electrodes by a low temperature route.
• The obtained electrodes show excellent supercapacitor characteristics.
• No obvious capacitance degradation is observed after 3000 cycle charge/discharge.

The need of new systems for the storage and conversion of renewable energy sources is fueling the research in supercapacitors. In this work, we propose a low temperature route for the synthesis of electrodes for these supercapacitors: electrodeposition of a transition metal hydroxide–Ni(OH)2 on a graphene foam. This electrode combines the superior mechanical and electrical properties of graphene, the large specific surface area of the foam and the large pseudocapacitance of Ni(OH)2. We report a specific capacitance up to 900 F/g as well as specific power and energy comparable to active carbon electrodes. These electrodes are potential candidates for their use in energy applications.

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