Synthesis, characterization, and electrochemical properties of Ni(OH)₂/ultra-stable Y zeolite composite

A novel composite of Ni(OH)₂/ultra-stable Y zeolite materials was synthesized by an improved chemical precipitation method, which used the ultra-stable Y zeolite as the template. The Ni(OH)₂/ultra-stable Y zeolite composite and its microstructure were characterized by X-ray diffraction measurements and transmission electron microscopy. Electrochemical studies were carried out using cyclic voltammetry, chronopotentiometry technology and ac impedance spectroscopy, respectively. The result shows that the loose-packed whisker Ni(OH)₂ phase has profound impacts on electrode performance at very high power output. A maximum discharge capacity of 185.6 mA-h/g (1670 F/g), or 371 mA-h/g (3340 F/g) after correcting for weight percent of nickel hydroxide phase at the current density of 625 mA/g could be achieved in a half-cell setup configuration for the Ni(OH)₂/ultra-stable Y zeolite electrode, suggesting its potential application in electrode material for secondary batteries and electrochemical capacitors. Furthermore, the effect of NH₄Cl concentration on the electrochemical properties characteristics has also been systemically explored.