A recent development in the field of energy storage has drawn significant attention to supercapacitors. Energy density refers to the amount of energy a given mass of a substance or system can store—it essentially measures how well energy is stored. On the other hand, power density represents the amount of power (i.e., the rate of energy transfer) per unit volume. In simpler terms, it evaluates how rapidly energy can be released.
Like batteries, capacitors are also leveraged for energy storage purposes. However, while batteries use chemical reactions for the same, capacitors utilize static electricity. The latter holds several advantages over batteries—it’s lightweight, does not contain harmful chemicals or toxic metals, and can be charged and discharged multiple times. Despite this, capacitors lack the ability to store as much electrical energy as batteries do.
The Rise of Supercapacitors
A new breed in the world of energy storage, supercapacitors, also known as electric double-layer capacitors (EDLC) or ultracapacitors, have emerged. Their defining quality is their ability to store an enormous amount of energy. Although batteries have a higher energy density (they can store more energy per unit mass), supercapacitors take the lead when it comes to power density—they are capable of releasing energy more quickly. This advantage makes them apt for storing and releasing large amounts of power relatively quickly.
Nanomaterials-Based Supercapacitors: A New Development
A group of researchers—including a recipient of the INSPIRE Faculty Award—have made a significant achievement in developing nanomaterials-based supercapacitors. Their work primarily focuses on carbon nanomaterials such as Carbon Nanotubes and Graphene. The high energy density of these newly developed supercapacitors can ensure a steady withdrawal of current over an extended period without requiring frequent recharging.
Optoelectronic Applications of Nanomaterials
In addition to their work on energy storage, the team of researchers is also developing novel nanostructures of carbon for optoelectronic applications. More specifically, they’re preparing these nanostructures for Surface-Enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), a technique that enhances Raman scattering by molecules adsorbed on rough metal surfaces or nanostructures.
Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research (INSPIRE)
The project of developing nanomaterials-based supercapacitors has been primarily driven by the INSPIRE initiative. Launched to attract talent towards scientific research at an early age, INSPIRE aims to strengthen and expand India’s Science and Technology base. The program, developed by the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Ministry of Science and Technology, and approved in 2008, includes three main components—Scheme for Early Attraction of Talent, Scholarship for Higher Education, and Assured Opportunity for Research Careers.
