Synthesis and characterization of the structural and electrochemical properties of Nd-Al codoped amorphous nickel hydroxide

Nd-Al codoped amorphous nickel hydroxide powders were synthesized by microemulsion precipitation method combined with rapid freezing technique. The microstructure of the prepared samples was analyzed with X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Raman spectroscopy. The electrochemical performances of the prepared samples were characterized with charge/discharge test, cyclic voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectra. The results showed that the codoping of Nd-Al resulted in more structural defects within the nickel hydroxide. Compared with the Al singly doped amorphous nickel hydroxide, the Nd-Al codoped amorphous nickel hydroxide showed improved electrochemical properties, such as better electrochemical reversibility, lower charge transfer resistance, and higher discharge capacity.