New Graphene Breakthrough Supercharges Next-Gen Energy Storage
Engineers from Monash University have introduced a major breakthrough in graphene-based energy storage. Their new material helps supercapacitors store more energy while charging much faster. As a result, it could reshape electric transport, power grids, and everyday devices.Supercapacitors already charge quickly, but they usually hold less energy than batteries. The team solved this by redesigning carbon into a highly curved graphene structure. This design allows more surface area to participate in energy storage, which boosts both energy and power.
Unlocking More Power from Carbon
Professor Mainak Majumder explains that small changes in heat treatment can dramatically improve carbon performance. In addition, the new method makes more of the material accessible to ions. Therefore, supercapacitors can store more energy without slowing down charging.This improvement brings supercapacitors closer to replacing batteries in many uses. It also supports industries that need quick power delivery, such as transport and grid systems.
Innovative Graphene Structure Drives the Breakthrough
The key lies in a new architecture called multiscale reduced graphene oxide, or M-rGO. The team created it from natural graphite using rapid thermal annealing. This process formed a curved, open network that lets ions move with impressive speed.Tests on real pouch cells showed record results. For example, the devices reached energy densities up to 99.5 Wh/L and power densities above 69 kW/L. They also charged rapidly and stayed stable through many cycles.
Moving Toward Commercial Use
Commercialization has already begun through Ionic Industries, a Monash spinout. The company now produces the graphene material in larger quantities. In addition, it is working with partners to bring it into high-performance energy systems. The project supports Australia’s goal of building cleaner, low-carbon technologies.
