High Performance Carbon Nanomaterials for Electrochemical Capacitors

Electrochemical capacitors are being developed for utility applications, providing emergency backup power, improving system stability, and lowering demand peaks. These functions reduce congestion at critical times for transmission and distribution systems. However, the use of electrochemical capacitors is limited by their performance (energy and power densities), safety, and short cycle life. The major factors responsible for these limits are the low electrolyte accessibility and low capacitance (for the electrodes), and the narrow electrochemical window, flammability, toxicity, volatility, thermal instability, and electrolyte depletion (for the electrolytes). This project will develop carbon nanotube composite electrodes and combine them with environmentally benign electrolytes, leading to advanced electrochemical capacitors with high energy density, high power density, safe operation, and long cycle life. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: High performance, safe, and long-lived electrochemical capacitors should significantly benefit a wide range of applications. Beyond the utility applications, they should find use in transportation, consumer electronics, medical electronics, and military and defense.