Morphology-Driven Performance: Nickel Cobaltite (NiCo₂O₄) Nanorods Synthesized with Hydrothermal Strategy for Versatile Electrochemical Systems

The structural and morphological properties of NiCo₂O₄ nanorods synthesized via the hydrothermal method were systematically investigated. The synthesis process involved a 12-hour hydrothermal reaction at 160 °C, followed by calcination at 400 °C for 2 hours. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis revealed a prominent (311) diffraction peak at approximately 36.9°, and the average crystallite size was calculated to be ~19.6 nm using the Scherrer equation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images demonstrated well-defined, rod-like nanostructures with a uniform surface morphology. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis confirmed the presence of Ni (6.85%), Co (17.37%), and O (20.49%) in ratios consistent with the expected spinel stoichiometry. The high carbon content (~55.29%) was attributed to the use of conductive carbon tape during SEM sample preparation or to residual organic compounds from the synthesis process. The combination of high chemical purity, uniform morphology, and nanoscale crystallite dimensions suggests that the synthesized NiCo₂O₄ nanorods are promising candidates for advanced applications in energy storage systems, electrocatalysis, and sensor technologies.