Supercapacitors

Research into electrolytes for next-generation high-performance energy storage devices.

Schematic representation of how an electrochemical double-layer capacitor (EDLC) works

Picture: Lukas Köps

"Supercapacitors" are the class of electrochemical energy storage devices that store charge through a physical process. Supercapacitors are known for their high power density (>10 kW kg⁻¹  ) , rapid charge/discharge (within seconds to minutes), extended lifetime (>10⁵ cycles ), and wide operating temperature range (-40 °C to +65 °C), offering excellent safety. Nevertheless, their energy density remains significantly lower than that of lithium-ion batteries, highlighting the classic trade-off between energy and power

One key strategy to enhance energy density is to increase the device's operating voltage, as energy scales with the square of the voltage (E = 1/2 CV² ) . This requires the development of electrolytes with enhanced voltage stability, particularly above 2.8 V. Our group is actively working on developing novel ionic liquid (IL)-based electrolytes to meet this challenge.

In parallel, we are exploring sustainable approaches for next-generation EDLCs. This includes developing eco-friendly electrode materials and biomass-derived solvents such as gamma-valerolactone (GVL), which offer reduced environmental impact and improved sustainability in energy storage systems.

  • Publications

    Gaško, M., Patil, F.I., Köps, L., Krüger, D., Neumann, C., Turchanin, A., Kreth, F.A., and Balducci, A.; Tetraethylammonium Perfluorobutanesulfonate as an Alternative Salt for Electric Double Layer Capacitors. Batteries & Supercaps 2024, 7 (11), e202400283.

    Köps, L., Kreth, F.A., Leistenschneider, D., Schutjajew, K., Gläßner, R., Oschatz, M., and Balducci, A.; Improving the stability of supercapacitors at high voltages and high temperatures by the implementation of ethyl isopropyl sulfone as electrolyte solvent. Advanced Energy Materials 2023, 13 (5), 2203821.

    Köps, L., Kreth, F.A., Bothe, A., and Balducci, A.; High voltage electrochemical capacitors operating at elevated temperature based on 1,1-dimethylpyrrolidinium tetrafluoroborate. Energy Storage Materials 2022, 44, 66-72.

Related Projects

  • ENERCAP

    "European Network to Empower Research on CAPacitors"
    The ENERCAP project builds a collaborative network connecting academia and industry to drive research in supercapacitor technology. By focusing on advanced electrode materials, innovative electrolytes, and hybrid energy-storage systems, the project trains the next generation of researchers in electrochemical characterization, materials optimization, electrolyte development, and device prototyping.
    Funding: Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Actions (MSCA)
    Project Duration: 08/2024-08/2027

    ENERCAP Consortium
    Image: ENERCAP Consortium
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