Influence of nanosized α-Ni(OH)2 addition on the electrochemical performance of β-Ni(OH)2 electrode

Al-substituted alpha-Ni(OH)(2) was synthesized by a chemical co-precipitation. The as-prepared alpha-Ni(OH)(2) particles were characterized by the means of X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The obtained alpha-Ni(OH)(2) particles were well crystallized, spherical shape with the particle sizes of 20-35 nm. The electrochemical performance of beta-Ni(OH)(2) electrode with addition of nanosized alpha-Ni(OH)(2) was investigated by galvanostatic charge-discharge tests. The nanosized a-Ni(OH)(2) as additive in the commercial microsized spherical beta-Ni(OH)(2) electrode improved the discharge capability. As compared to commercial beta-Ni(OH)(2) electrode, the electrode with nanosized alpha-Ni(OH)(2) exhibited excellent better charge-discharge cycling stability. It may be a promising positive active material for alkaline secondary batteries.