Nanostructured Composites as High-Performance Anode Materials for Supercapacitors - Synthesis, Engineering Strategy, and Challenges

Guangdong Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Shantou, Guangdong, 515063, China

^* Corresponding author: liugt@nwafu.edu.cn

Abstract

As electric vehicles continue to rise in popularity, the quest for enhancements in their operational range and overall performance has led to an increasing demand for energy storage solutions with both high energy density and superior cycle performance. In response to this demand, supercapacitors have emerged as a highly promising technology, largely due to their exceptional cycle stability and rapid charge-discharge capabilities. Central to the advancements in supercapacitor technology is the development of anode electrode materials, which play a critical role in augmenting the energy storage capacity and efficiency of these devices. This article explores the synthesis and engineering strategies of nanocomposites, which are at the forefront of anode electrode material innovation. These nanocomposites, under their unique structural and compositional attributes, offer enhanced electrical conductivity and electrochemical properties, thereby significantly improving the performance of supercapacitors. However, despite the promising advances, there remain substantial challenges that need to be addressed. These include issues related to the scalability of production processes, the durability of materials under operational stress, and the optimization of the nanocomposites for specific applications. The article concludes by underscoring the need for ongoing research and development efforts aimed at overcoming these hurdles, which will be crucial for the realization of next-generation supercapacitors that meet the growing performance demands of electric vehicles and other applications.