Trends4Tomorrow (March 5, 2009) — In order to make the most of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and related technologies, we’ll need to make quantum leaps beyond the energy storage technologies that are prevalent today.  Today, two main methods exist for storing electrical energy: 

• Rechargeable batteries
• Ultracapacitors 

Ultracapacitors can be used in a wide range of energy capture and storage applications, and are used either by themselves as the primary power source or in combination with batteries or fuel cells.  Ultra-capacitors have a number of advantages over batteries, including: 

• Higher power capability
• Longer life
• A wider thermal operating range
• Lower weight
• More flexible packaging
• Less maintenance

For these reasons, they are becoming increasingly commercialized, even though they are not yet as well-known as batteries.

A recent edition of Nano Letters describes an exciting breakthrough by researchers at the University of Texas at Austin.  It involves the use of graphene for storing an electrical charge in ultracapacitor devices. 

This breakthrough could eventually double the capacity of existing ultracapacitors, paving the way for the massive installation of renewable energies.  Why?  Because energy storage is vital for times when the wind doesn’t blow or the sun doesn’t shine.  During those times, the stored electrical energy can be delivered through the electrical grid as needed.

This technology also has the potential to significantly improve the efficiency and performance of electric and hybrid cars, buses, trains, and trams.  Even everyday devices, such as office copiers and cell phones, could benefit from the improved power delivery and long lifetimes of ultracapacitors.