Cu2O templating strategy for the synthesis of octahedral Cu2O@Mn(OH)2 core–shell hierarchical structures with a superior performance supercapacitor

We demonstrate the design and fabrication of novel Cu2O@Mn(OH)2 core–shell hierarchical structures using octahedral Cu2O as a template. The Cu2O backbone supports the growth of an ultrathin Mn(OH)2 nanoflake shell, leading to a relatively large surface area (65.8 m2 g−1) for sufficient utilization of active materials. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge–discharge measurements (GCD), as well as cycling stability and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were performed to examine the electrochemical performances of the Cu2O@Mn(OH)2 core–shell structure. Applied as a supercapacitor electrode, the Cu2O@Mn(OH)2 composite delivers a high specific capacitance of 540.9 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 and an energy density of 6.4–18.2 Wh kg−1. After conducting 3000 cycles at 5.0 A g−1, the capacitance retention of 71.5% was achieved. The unique core–shell structure of the Cu2O@Mn(OH)2 composite favours the effective transport of electrolytes and shortens the ion diffusion path. In addition, the synergetic effects from both Cu2O and Mn(OH)2 significantly enhance the electrochemical performances. Our findings suggest that this Cu2O@Mn(OH)2 core–shell is very promising for next generation high-performance supercapacitors.