Wire-Type Supercapacitor Using Braided Carbon Fiber Electrode
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wire-type supercapacitors face challenges in integrating with wearable systems due to their 2-dimensional structure and limited energy density, primarily because of the low voltage range of solid-state water-based electrolytes, which restricts their practical application in diverse and life-related scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A carbon fiber electrode with a braided structure coated with carbon nanotubes and V2O5 nanowires, combined with a solid-state electrolyte based on 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide and LiCl, and a cellulose separator, forming a wire-type supercapacitor that enhances capacitance and structural stability, suitable for wearable devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If solid-state water-based electrolytes are used in wire-type supercapacitors, then ease of operation and safety are improved, but energy density deteriorates due to low voltage range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical composition parameters of the electrolyte by replacing water-based electrolytes with ionic liquid-based electrolytes containing lithium salts. This parameter change extends the voltage range from typical water-based limits to higher voltages, thereby increasing energy density while maintaining operational safety and ease of use in wearable devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a composite electrolyte system combining ionic liquids and lithium salts to create a solid-state electrolyte that exhibits both high voltage stability and high ionic conductivity. This composite approach allows the electrolyte to function effectively in wire-type supercapacitors, achieving both safety and high energy density requirements.
2Ease of manufacture
If 2-dimensional planar supercapacitor structure is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but adaptability to wearable systems deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2-dimensional planar supercapacitor structures to 1-dimensional wire-type structures. This dimensional change enables direct integration into cloth and fabric during manufacturing, providing flexibility for various wearable applications while maintaining ease of fabrication through established textile processing methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The wire-type supercapacitor structure serves multiple functions: it acts as an energy storage device, can be directly integrated into fabric during manufacturing, and provides structural flexibility for various wearable configurations. This multi-functionality enhances adaptability to different wearable systems while maintaining manufacturing simplicity.
3Quantity of substance
If pseudocapacitive materials are added to carbon-based electrodes, then capacitance is improved through redox reactions, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the electrode material parameters by incorporating lithium-containing compounds into the carbon-based electrode structure. This modification enables lithium ion insertion and extraction reactions, significantly increasing capacitance through pseudocapacitive effects while maintaining a relatively simple electrode architecture suitable for wire-type construction.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides a high-capacitance, structurally stable wire-type supercapacitor with an extended voltage range, enabling practical integration into wearable systems and stable operation under mechanical deformations and long cycling durability, suitable for applications like NO2 and UV sensors.
Implementation Method 1
pseudocapacitive materials capable of enhancing the capacitance through redox reactions are added to carbon-based materials forming electric double layers
Implementation Method 2
carbon-based materials forming electric double layers
Implementation Method 3
solid-state electrolyte based on 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide and LiCl
Data Source
AI summary
A wire shaped carbon fiber electrode is disclosed. The carbon fiber electrode includes braided strings of carbon fiber. The carbon fiber electrode is fabricated in a simple process, facilitating its practical application to clothes. In addition, the carbon fiber electrode possesses high capacitance and structural stability and is easily applicable to various wearable devices. Also disclosed are a wire-type supercapacitor including the carbon fiber electrode, a NO2 sensor including the supercapacitor, and a UV sensor including the supercapacitor.