High-strength and machinable load-bearing integrated electrochemical capacitors based on polymeric solid electrolyte

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Mechanical Engineering

Background:

• Mobile energy storage systems require higher energy density for applications like electric cars and drones.
• Integrating energy storage into structural components, known as load-bearing/energy storage integrated devices (LEIDs), offers a promising solution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and characterize high-performance LEIDs with enhanced mechanical strength and energy storage capabilities.
• To investigate the impact of different multilayered structures on device performance.
• To demonstrate the processability and adaptability of LEIDs for complex applications.

Main Methods:

• Preparation of LEIDs utilizing a newly developed high-strength solid electrolyte.
• Design and comparison of two distinct multilayered structures for LEIDs.
• Mechanical testing to evaluate flexural modulus and strength.
• Electrochemical testing to determine specific capacitance, energy density, and power density.
• Demonstration of LEID processability through shaping and assembly.

Main Results:

• Achieved excellent mechanical properties: flexural modulus of 18.1 GPa and flexural strength of 160.0 MPa.
• Demonstrated high energy storage: specific capacitance of 32.4 mF cm⁻², energy density of 0.13 Wh m⁻², and maximum power density of 1.3 W m⁻².
• Showcased enhanced bearing ability and working flexibility through multilayered designs.
• Confirmed excellent processability, allowing formation into curved shapes and complex assemblies without performance degradation.

Conclusions:

• The developed LEIDs represent a significant advancement in integrated energy storage and structural materials.
• The novel solid electrolyte and multilayered designs enable robust and efficient energy storage solutions.
• The demonstrated processability opens possibilities for versatile applications in next-generation mobile devices and vehicles.