Scientists have developed a high-voltage super-capacitor, which is a high-capacity, electrochemical energy storage device, that can facilitate applications like solar panels and also provide electric vehicles with increased range and faster acceleration.
Conventional electrolytes used in commercial super-capacitors can operate between 2.5-3.0 volts and begin to decompose or face safety issues such as flammability at higher voltages. Bridging the gap between conventional capacitors and rechargeable batteries, they store energy electrostatically via ions on high-surface-area electrodes, enabling incredibly fast charging and discharging, high power density and a long lifespan of millions of cycles.
Researchers at the International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI), used dual-functional porous graphene carbon nanocomposite (PGCN) electrodes to reach an unprecedented 3.4 volts overcoming the 3.0-volt limitation of conventional super-capacitors along with significantly improved energy storage, according to information shared by the Ministry of Science and Technology.
“This innovation addresses electrolyte instability, doubling energy density to provide electric vehicles with increased range and faster acceleration while simplifying module design through reduced cell stacking,” a statement by the Ministry read.
The enhanced performance originates from the engineered surface of the PGCN material, which is both water-repellent and highly compatible with organic electrolytes. This dual functionality suppresses water-induced degradation and enables rapid electrolyte penetration into the porous structure, improving ion transport and electrochemical efficiency.
As a result, the super-capacitor delivers 33 percent higher energy storage, high power output, and excellent long-term stability, making it suitable for electric vehicles, grid-scale storage, and portable electronics, according to the researchers. The higher operating voltage reduces the need for stacking multiple low-voltage cells, enabling more compact and efficient energy-storage modules.
The PGCN electrodes are produced through an eco-friendly process. Conducted at 300 degrees Celsius for 25 hours in a sealed vessel, the process eliminates the use of harsh chemicals and external gases, minimizes environmental impact and is scalable from laboratory to industrial production.
“Consistent performance is ensured through precise control of synthesis parameters. Compared with commercial carbon-based electrodes, the PGCN electrode simultaneously enhances operating voltage and power output. PGCN-based super-capacitor stores 33 percent more energy than conventional devices and retains 96 percent of its performance after 15,000 charge-discharge cycles, demonstrating exceptional durability,” the researchers said.
The research, published in Elsevier’s Chemical Engineering Journal, supports India’s clean energy goals and self-reliance initiative by strengthening indigenous capabilities in advanced energy-storage technologies, according to the ministry.
