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Understanding Supercapacitors and Their Applications
Nov 12, 2024
Supercapacitors (Ultracapacitors)
Introduction
Used as additional energy storage devices in electric vehicles.
Specifically for storing energy from regenerative braking.
Definition
A supercapacitor is a specially designed capacitor.
Capable of storing large electrical charges.
Can be recharged quickly and releases a significant amount of power.
Components of a Supercapacitor
Current Collectors:
Made from aluminum.
Electrodes:
Composed of activated carbon material.
Separator:
Made from Kapton.
Electrolyte Solution:
Typically made from potassium hydroxide or sulfuric acid.
Working Principle
Charging Process
Connection:
Charger is connected across the electrodes.
Current Flow:
Current starts to flow inside the supercapacitor.
Ion Distribution:
Positive and negative ions are present in the electrolyte.
Positive electrode attracts negative ions, forming a layer.
Negative electrode attracts positive ions, forming another layer.
Electrostatic Forces:
Attraction between electrodes and electrolyte creates electric double layers.
Electrical Double Layer Capacitor (EDLC):
Capacitor C1 is formed due to this layer.
Another capacitor C2 forms in series with C1.
Total capacitance is influenced by the surface area of electrodes and the distance between them.
Discharging Process
Load Connection:
A load is connected across the electrodes.
Charge Loss:
Electrodes lose charge.
Current Flow:
Charge flows through the external circuit, powering the load.
Ions Redistribution:
Ions redistribute back across the electrolyte as electrodes discharge.
Applications
Used as an additional power source in regenerative braking systems.
Ideal for applications requiring high power over short periods, such as quick accelerations.
Conclusion
Supercapacitors offer fast charging and discharging capabilities, making them valuable in modern energy storage solutions.
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