14/03/2022
Advancements in supercapacitors could revolutionise battery technology.
A team of researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden has created a technique that may lead to a breakthrough in the production of micro-supercapacitors.
Supercapacitors could represent a revolution in the production of advanced battery technology, from enhancing their lifespan, to allowing for incredibly fast charging. As a result, producers of everything from smartphones to electric vehicles are heavily investing into the research and development of these unique electronic components.
Optimising manufacturing
“When discussing new technologies, it is easy to forget how important the manufacturing method is, so that they can actually be commercially produced and be impactful in society. Here, we have developed methods that can really work in production,” explained Agin Vyas, doctoral student at the Department of Microtechnology and Nanoscience at Chalmers University of Technology, and lead author of the article.
Supercapacitors comprise of two electrical conductors divided by an insulating layer. They are capable of storing electrical energy and contain numerous encouraging properties that contrast those in a typical battery, including far more rapid charging, more effective energy distribution, and a greater lifespan without damage to performance.
When a supercapacitor is merged with a battery in an electrically powered product, it is possible for the battery life to be extended several times – up to four times for commercial electric vehicles.
This technology, whether for individual electronic devices or industrial technologies, could have massive benefits for manufacturers and consumers alike.
“It would of course be very convenient to be able to quickly charge, for example, an electric car or not have to change or charge batteries as often as we currently do in our smartphones. But it would also represent a great environmental benefit and be much more sustainable, if batteries had a longer lifespan and did not need to be recycled in complicated processes,” commented Vyas.