Unlocking the full energy densities of carbon-based supercapacitors

Abstract

Carbon-based supercapacitors (SCs) have limited energy density due to sluggish mass diffusion and restricted charge accumulation. To increase the energy density of carbon-based SCs, attention must be paid to the factors of specific capacitance and electrochemical stability window. This review summarizes recent signs of progress in carbon-based materials, including specific surface area, pore structure regulation, heteroatom doped, and carbon composites. In addition, we discuss aqueous, organic, and ionic liquid electrolytes that affect the electrochemical stability window of SCs. Finally, the possibilities for achieving synergy in electrode/electrolytes are summarized via enhancing the pseudocapacitance contribution and developing high-voltage window electrolytes.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT

IMPACT STATEMENT

Based on the latest research progress of carbon-based supercapacitors, this paper aims to provide new insights and guidance on improving energy density from delicate architecture of electrode materials and electrolytes.

KEYWORDS:

• Carbon-based supercapacitors
• energy density
• electrode materials
• electrolytes

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This research is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China [grant numbers 51932003, 52272209, 51872115]; and 2020 International Cooperation Project of the Department of Science and Technology of Jilin Province [grant number 20200801001GH].