Researchers in Korea have made a significant breakthrough by developing a self-charging energy storage device that integrates supercapacitors with solar cells, utilizing innovative transition metal-based electrode materials. This advancement enhances energy density and stability, leading to improved performance for sustainable energy storage solutions. The device features electrodes made from a nickel-based carbonate and hydroxide composite, incorporating transition metal ions such as manganese, cobalt, and zinc to maximize conductivity and stability.
Notably, the device achieved an energy density of 35.5 Wh/kg, surpassing previous studies that reported 5-20 Wh/kg, and a power density of 2555.6 W/kg, which is significantly higher than earlier records. The technology demonstrated minimal degradation over repeated charge and discharge cycles, indicating long-term usability. Furthermore, when combined with silicon solar cells, the system achieved an energy storage efficiency of 63%, validating the potential for commercialization.
Senior researcher Jeongmin Kim emphasized the achievement as Korea’s first self-charging energy storage device aimed at addressing energy storage limitations. The research was supported by significant institutional projects and published in the journal Energy, marking a promising step toward the future of sustainable energy solutions.
