Electrostatically intercalated MgAl-layered double hydroxide (LDH) nanosheets act as non-redox spacers to prevent rGO restacking via a self-assembly process. Such layer-by-layer structure provides accessible nano-channels for rapid ion transport, exhibiting high capacitance (410 F g−1) with robust retention and cycling stability. This strategy provides a scalable method of designing the layered 2D materials for next-generation supercapacitors.
Abstract
Graphene-based materials have great potential for electrochemical energy storage applications, but their performance is often limited by the restacking of nanosheets, which restricts ion accessibility. In this study, a straightforward method to fabricate reduced graphene oxide (rGO) laminates intercalated with magnesium–aluminium layered double hydroxide (MgAl-LDH) nanosheets is presented. Due to electrostatic interactions, the positively charged LDH nanosheets strongly bind to the negatively charged rGO layers, forming a stable, alternating laminar structure with well-defined nano-capillaries. Detailed characterization confirms the intended architecture of the rGO-LDH hybrid. Electrochemical analysis shows nearly ideal electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC) behavior, with the rGO-LDH reaching a specific capacitance of up to 410 F g−1 at 1 A g−1. This work highlights the vital role of LDH nanosheets as interlayer spacers that effectively prevent restacking, providing new insights into designing 2D materials for high-performance supercapacitors and energy storage systems.
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