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Updated: Nov 21, 2025

Evaluating the Electrochemical Properties of Supercapacitors using the Three-Electrode System
Published on: January 7, 2022
AlO6 clusters' electric storage effect in amorphous alumina supercapacitors
Mikio Fukuhara1, Tomoyuki Kuroda2, Fumihiko Hasegawa2
1New Industry Creation Hatchery Center, Tohoku University, Sendai, 980-8579, Japan. mikio.fukuhara.b2@tohoku.ac.jp.
This study reveals how amorphous alumina (AAO) supercapacitors store electricity. Electron-beam irradiation induces a unique charge-breathing effect in AlO6 clusters, enhancing electron adsorption and supercapacitor performance.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Electrochemistry
Background:
- Amorphous alumina (AAO) is a promising material for supercapacitors.
- Understanding charge storage mechanisms at the nanoscale is crucial for device optimization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the electric storage effect of AlO6 clusters in AAO supercapacitors.
- To analyze the influence of electron-beam irradiation on cluster morphology and charge dynamics.
Main Methods:
- First-principles density functional calculations were employed.
- Simulations of electron-beam irradiation (100-180 keV) were performed.
- Current-voltage (I-V) and current-resistance (I-R) characteristics were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Optimized AlO6 clusters around oxygen vacancies exhibit significant vacant space and electron adsorption.
- Electron-beam irradiation induces a reversible "charge-breathing" effect with ~4% volume expansion.
- Coulomb blockade was observed, indicating switching effects for both positive and negative potentials.
- The AAO supercapacitor demonstrated performance in the second capability area on the Ragone plot.
Conclusions:
- The identified charge-breathing mechanism in AlO6 clusters is key to electric storage in AAO supercapacitors.
- Electron-beam irradiation can modulate cluster structure and enhance electron adsorption for improved energy storage.
- The observed Coulomb blockade and performance metrics highlight the potential of AAO in supercapacitor applications.
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