Aragonese Researchers Develop Aqueous Supercapacitors for Sustainable Energy Storage
Scientists from the Institute of Nanoscience and Materials of Aragon (INMA) have published a pioneering study in the Journal of Power Sources that proposes new strategies to improve the performance and stability of aqueous supercapacitors. This research represents a significant advancement towards greener and more economical alternatives in the face of the current energy crisis.
Given the increasing energy demand and the limitations of fossil fuels, renewable energies require more efficient and secure storage systems. Aqueous supercapacitors stand out as one of the most promising and environmentally friendly options, differentiating themselves from conventional batteries due to their ability to charge and discharge in a matter of seconds.
Technical Characteristics of the Development
Hybrid Nanomaterials: The team has developed a series of nanomaterials that incorporate bismuth sulfide nanoparticles of just 4 nanometers in commercial carbonaceous materials. These new nanomaterials can be used as supercapacitor electrodes, and their storage capacity is significantly greater than that of conventional carbonaceous materials.
Synergistic Effect: It has been demonstrated that an aqueous sodium iodide electrolyte generates a synergistic effect with the nanoparticles, reaching to double or triple the stored energy compared to conventional aqueous systems.
To address the main stability issue after multiple charging and discharging cycles, the researchers have implemented two complementary strategies: the incorporation of iodine into the carbonaceous material and the addition of a neutral buffer to the electrolyte. These approaches have ensured that the supercapacitors maintain their properties intact after more than 1,000 cycles of use.
The research is led by María Bernechea Navarro (ARAI Researcher), María Pilar Lobera González (Contracted Professor), and researchers Sergio Aina and Abdenbi Cherkaoui, all from the Porous Films and Particles (NFP) research group at INMA, in collaboration with the Poznań University of Technology in Poland.
The project has received funding from multiple sources, including the M-ERA.NET network, the MICIU/AEI, FEDER/UE funds, and NextGenerationEU/PRTR programs promoted by the Government of Aragon.
