Space-based Carbon Nanotube Ultracapacitor

Luna Innovations will develop novel carbon nanosheet technology for space-based ultracapacitors. Our proven nanosheet manufacturing process will be optimized for high power densities, long cycle and shelf lifetimes, a wide temperature range, and high radiation tolerance for satellite applications. Luna’s goal in the Phase II period is to demonstrate a prototype device with a specific energy density higher than any available technology for fast charge/discharge applications, enabling the overall weight reduction of a variety of satellite power supply systems. Deposited by RF plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD), carbon nanosheet films are similar to vertically aligned carbon nanotubes, but nanosheets offer an open, two-dimensional, planar nanostructure rather than a closed, cylindrical tubular structure, and therefore a higher specific surface area. In almost every metric, nanosheets offer potential advantages over nanotubes or activated carbon as an electrode material for ultracapacitors. BENEFIT: Because nanosheet synthesis occurs directly onto the current collector, requires no special substrate pre-treatment or purification of catalyst materials, and can be easily post-treated in situ, high-volume production costs are expected to be comparable to other nano-structured electrode materials. Hence, Luna’s nanosheet-based Ultracapacitors will have application in a variety of consumer electronics and mobile communications devices, as well as potential replacements for wet tantalum capacitors in military uses.