Dual-functional NiCo2S4 polyhedral architecture with superior electrochemical performance for supercapacitors and lithium-ion batteries

Abstract Dual-functional NiCo2S4 polyhedral architectures with outstanding electrochemical performance for supercapacitors and lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have been rationally designed and successfully synthesized by a hydrothermal method. The as-synthesized NiCo2S4 electrode for supercapacitor exhibit an outstanding specific capacitance of 1298 F g–1 at 1 A g–1 and an excellent rate capability of ∼80.4% at 20 A g–1. Besides, capacitance retention of 90.44% is realized after 8000 cycles. In addition, the NiCo2S4 as anode in LIBs delivers high initial charge/discharge capacities of 807.6 and 972.8 mAh g–1 at 0.5 C as well as good rate capability. In view of these points, this work provides a feasible pathway for assembling electrodes and devices with excellent electrochemical properties in the next generation energy storage applications.