Scientists Uncover Surprising Efficiency of “Messy” Supercapacitors

The energy density of supercapacitors, devices similar to batteries that can recharge rapidly in just seconds or minutes, can be improved by increasing the ‘messiness’ of their internal structure.

Researchers led by the University of Cambridge used experimental and computer modeling techniques to study the porous carbon electrodes used in supercapacitors. They found that electrodes with a more disordered chemical structure stored far more energy than electrodes with a highly ordered structure.

Supercapacitors are a key technology for the energy transition and could be useful for certain forms of public transport, as well as for managing intermittent solar and wind energy generation, but their adoption has been limited by poor energy density.