Zinc cobaltite embedded in binary metal-organic frameworks using a direct binder-free electrode fabrication approach for efficient energy storage devices and monosodium glutamate detection

There is an imperative need to develop high performance electrode for advance energy storage devices. This work represents the successful synthesis of zinc cobaltite (ZnCo₂O₄), nickel cobalt metal organic framework, and their composite (ZnCo₂O₄@NiCo-MOF). The materials are synthesized by using both hydrothermal and sonication techniques. The ZnCo₂O₄ offers eco-friendly and diffusion regulated properties, while NiCo-MOF provides large specific surface area and tunable pore structure. The ZnCo₂O₄@NiCo-MOF provide superior electrochemical performance compared to ZnCo₂O₄ and NiCo-MOF in a three electrode setup. The ZnCo₂O₄@NiCo-MOF provides a specific capacity of 984 C/g at 1.5 A/g. The ZnCo₂O₄@NiCo-MOF is also utilized in two electrode setup with activated carbon. The ZnCo₂O₄@NiCo-MOF//AC device demonstrates the energy density of 92.4 Wh/kg and a power density of 930 W/kg. Additionally, the real time application of ZnCo₂O₄@NiCo-MOF electrode is also tested in the detection of monosodium glutamate in food. This study highlights the importance of ZnCo₂O₄@NiCo-MOF electrode materials for future storage and detection devices.