Novel [111] oriented γ-Mo2N thin films deposited by magnetron sputtering as an anode for aqueous micro-supercapacitors

The gamma-Mo2N thin films were deposited using reactive dc magnetron sputtering, and tested as an electrode material in an aqueous solution of Li2SO4 with a working potential window of 0.05V similar to-0.85 V versus SCE. The morphology, structure and electrochemical properties were systematically studied for the films of different deposition conditions. It was found that the electrochemical property of the gamma-Mo2N film depends not only on the deposition temperature but also on the nitrogen concentration in Ar-N-2 gas mixture. The sample deposited for 1 h at 400 degrees C with nitrogen concentration x = 0.35 shows a dense microstructure and strong (111) texture. It exhibits the best electrochemical property, with a high volumetric capacitance of 722 F cm(-3) at 5 mV s(-1), moderate rate capability with a relaxation time constant of 220 ms, and excellent cycling stability of 100% capacitance retention after 2000 cycles. The (111)-oriented gamma-Mo2N film is suggested to be a promising candidate of anode materials for micro-electrochemical-capacitors. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.