BACKGROUND:  Electrochemical capacitors are energy storage devices that provide a high-power and lightweight alternative to rechargeable industrial batteries and backup power supplies. Furthermore, the capacitors exhibit high cycling efficiency, fast recharge capability, and reliable cold temperature performance. However, current electrochemical capacitors are limited by their relatively low energy densities.

INNOVATION:  Researchers at UCLA have developed a method that significantly increases the energy density of electrochemical capacitors. High surface area and facile ion motion is attained through fabricating nano-crystalline films with three-dimensionally interconnected porosity. As a result, the charge capacity is increased, without compromising the high charging/discharging rates of electrochemical capacitors.

POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS 

• Uninterrupted power supplies
• Pulse-based communication system, radar, and laser
• Hybrid electric automobiles

ADVANTAGES

• High power density
• High energy density
• Long cycle life
• High charging/discharging rates
• Light weight

DEVELOPMENT-TO-DATE:  Mesoporous nanocrystal-based films have been synthesized and the electrochemical capacitors characterized.

Related Papers (Selected)

• "Templated Nanocrystal-Based Porous TiO2 Films for Next-Generation Electrochemical Capacitors," T. Brezesinski, J. Wang, J. Polleux, B. Dunn, S. H. Tolbert J. American Chemical Society (2009) [more]

Reference: UCLA Case No. 2009-392