SBIR Phase I: Advanced Materials for Hybrid Electrochemical Capacitors

This Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase I project involves the development of a nanostructured electrode material for high energy and power density hybrid electrochemical capacitors. The proposed work involves an innovative, low-cost manufacturing process to result in a nanostructured metal oxide electrode for high energy and power density hybrid electrochemical capacitors that function in aqueous electrolytes. The objectives of the Phase I research are to develop an optimal, low cost, synthetic route to produce the nanostructured material, optimize the material's electrochemical performance in aqueous electrolytes within half-cell configurations, test the material's performance in hybrid asymmetric configurations, and develop a low cost, scalable manufacturing process to produce the material. Hybrid electrochemical capacitors that have high energy densities, as well as power densities, result in improved performance, low cost power systems for medium and high power applications. The proposed technology will enable the manufacture of next generation electrochemical capacitors that operate in aqueous electrolytes rather than flammable non-aqueous electrolytes. The use of benign aqueous electrolytes reduces the cost of the device and has significant safety and environmental impacts.