Less Is More: Can Low Quantum Capacitance Boost Capacitive Energy Storage?
Taras Verkholyak, A. R. Kuzmak, Alexei A. Kornyshev, Svyatoslav Kondrat
Abstract
We present a theoretical analysis of charge storage in electrochemical capacitors with electrodes based on carbon nanotubes. Using exact analytical solutions supported by Monte Carlo simulations, we show how the limitations of the electron density of states in such low-dimensional electrode materials may help boost the energy stored at increased voltages. While these counterintuitive predictions await experimental verification, they suggest exciting opportunities for enhancing energy storage by rational engineering of the electronic properties of low-dimensional electrodes.
Topics & Concepts
CapacitanceCapacitorEnergy storageCounterintuitiveCapacitive sensingElectrodeMaterials scienceMonte Carlo methodSupercapacitorVoltageQuantumCharge (physics)OptoelectronicsNanotechnologyElectrical engineeringPhysicsQuantum mechanicsEngineeringPower (physics)MathematicsStatisticsSupercapacitor Materials and FabricationConducting polymers and applicationsTransition Metal Oxide Nanomaterials