Synthesis, characterization and application of CNTs@Co-MOF and FCNTs@Co-MOF as superior supercapacitor: Experimental and theoretical studies

Supercapacitor offers high power density and quick charge/discharge speed. Herein, a cobalt-metal organic framework (Co-MOF) is synthesized, and the chemical structure is investigated via XRD, FTIR, XPs, and SEM-EDX. Photoluminescence and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy measurements determine the optical properties and band gap. The band gap of Co-MOF is calculated and found to be 1.94 eV, indicating its capability to be applied as a supercapacitor. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and functionalized carbon nanotubes (FCNTs) are mixed with Co-MOF to form CNTs@Co-MOFs and FCNTs@Co-MOFs, respectively. The performance of these MOFs as supercapacitors is evaluated using electrochemical measurements. According to the analysis of the super capacitance of the synthesized compounds, FCNTs@Co-MOF shows the highest specific supercapacitance of 454 F g−1, whereas Co-MOF and CNTs@Co-MOF have 263 F g−1 and 338 F g−1, respectively. Besides, the semi-empirical quantum method is used to assess the relationship between the electronic and the experimental data. Experimental and theoretical results recommended the usage of the investigated MOFs as superior supercapacitors.