Synthesis, Characterization and Applications of Spinel Cobaltite Nanomaterials

Background: Recently, spinel structures (AB(2)O(4)) nanoparticles (NPs) having binary and ternary mixtures of metal oxides have been established as promising redox catalysts. Due to the presence of two mixed valence metal cations, transport of electrons takes place easily between multiple transition-metal cations with relatively low energy of activation. Method: Among these, spinel cobaltite (MCo2O4) is very attractive due to its low cost, non-toxicity, higher stability, higher electronic conductivity and electrochemical property. To date, MCo2O4 has been used in the fabrication of supercapacitors, electrodes for oxygen evolution reaction, and electrochemical sensors for glucose. Results: A variety of MCo2O4 materials have been synthesized, characterized, and utilized in the fabrication of super capacitors, electrodes for oxygen evolution reaction, and electrochemical sensors for glucose. Conclusion: The progress in the field of the spinel MCo2O4 materials opens the door to novel and efficient applications in the nanoscience and nanotechnology, and elctrochemistry.