Sponge-like β-Ni(OH)2 nanoparticles: synthesis, characterization and electrochemical properties

The present investigation describes the synthesis of uniform sponge-like Ni(OH)(2) nanoparticles on stainless steel substrates by a two-step successive ionic layer adsorption and reaction method; the study also explores electrochemical properties. The formation of the beta-phase Ni(OH)(2) and it's nanocrystallinity are confirmed by X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies. Scanning electron microscopy revealed the formation and random distributions of porous and sponge-like nanoparticles with high Brunauer-Emmett-Teller surface area of 56.4 m(2) g(-1). The maximum specific capacitance of 428 F g(-1) was obtained at 5 mV s(-1) in a 2 M KOH electrolyte, indicating promising supercapacitor applications with remarkable rate capability. These results suggest the importance of rational design and synthesis of thin nanomaterials for high-performance energy applications.