Fern-like rGO/BiVO₄ hybrid nanostructures for high-energy symmetric supercapacitor

Abstract

Herein, we demonstrate the synthesis of rGO/BiVO₄ hybrid nanostructures by facile hydrothermal method. Morphological studies reveal that rGO sheets are embedded in the special dendritic fern-like structures of BiVO₄. The rGO/BiVO₄ hybrid architecture shows the way to a rational design of supercapacitor, since these structures enable easy access of electrolyte ions by reducing internal resistance. Considering the unique morphological features of rGO/BiVO₄ hybrid nanostructures, their supercapacitive properties were investigated. The rGO/BiVO₄ electrode exhibits a specific capacitance of 151 F/g at the current density of 0.15 mA/cm². Furthermore, we have constructed rGO/BiVO₄ symmetric cell which exhibits outstanding volumetric energy density of 1.6 mW h/cm³ (33.7 W h/kg) and ensures rapid energy delivery with power density of 391 mW/cm³ (8.0 kW/kg). The superior properties of symmetric supercapacitor can be attributed to the special dendritic fern-like BiVO₄ morphology and intriguing physicochemical properties of rGO.