Facile synthesis of hybrid nanocomposite based on chitosan binary metal oxides for high-performance supercapacitor

The advancement in materials for energy storage for supercapacitors has been supported by the current shortage of energy as well as the increasing availability of sources of clean energy. Consequently, two-dimensional materials based on metal oxide nanoparticles (copper oxide (CuO) and zinc oxide (ZnO), have great potential for the previously discussed utilization. A simple and affordable solid-state approach was employed to design hybrid nanocomposite based on chitosan (Cs) blended with ZnO and CuO; this nanocomposite was labeled with CZC. The structural, morphological investigation of CZC hybrid nanocomposites, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) of the prepared nanocomposites were characterized. Consequently, hybrid nanocomposites for application as electrodes for supercapacitor devices were developed. The hybrid nanocomposite (CZC-3) shows improved cycle stability, high energy density, and a specific capacitance in the electrochemical activity. Remaining at 97.8% of the initial capacitance even after 5000 cycles. These results imply that the hybrid nanocomposite based on Cs/ZnO/CuO has a promising future as a supercapacitor electrode material. Additionally, it provides superior performance to other nanocomposites with a high specific capacitance of 638.3 F/g and about 86.98% capacity retention after 5000 cycles at a current density of 1 A/g.