A porous Co(OH)2 material derived from a MOF template and its superior energy storage performance for supercapacitors

A novel method was explored to synthesize Co(OH)(2) using a Co-based metal-organic framework (MOF) as a template via a solid-solid conversion process in alkali solution. The MOF-derived Co(OH)(2) was proved to have a loose and mesoporous structure, which can provide good electrolyte penetration, shorten the ion transfer distance, and increase the contact area of the MOF-derived Co(OH)(2) and electrolyte. As a result, the as-made Co(OH)(2) exhibits superior electrochemical properties with high specific capacitance (604.5 F g(-1) at a current density of 0.1 A g(-1)), excellent rate capability, and good cycling performance. The facile and eco-friendly nature of the strategy give it potential to be extended to other metal hydroxides with excellent electrochemical performances.