A new class of Lignavolt-based supercapacitors delivers double the energy density (~14–15 Wh/kg vs. ~7–8 Wh/kg) while halving weight, size, and cost compared to existing solutions, says UK-based energy company Allotrope.
- Ideal for hybrid-electric vehicles: These supercapacitors can harvest and release energy from regenerative braking far more effectively than lithium-ion batteries.
- Example: To capture energy from 6 seconds of braking, a lithium-ion battery would weigh as much as a filing cabinet and cost ~£1,500. A Lignavolt-based supercapacitor, however, would weigh just ~3 kg, fit in a shoebox, and cost ~£80.
- High discharge rate: A 1 kg Lignavolt supercapacitor can deliver ~50 kW, compared to ~1 kW from the same mass of lithium-ion.
- Temperature resilience: Operates efficiently across all climates without thermal management systems.
- Exceptional longevity: EDLC technology supports millions of charge cycles without performance degradation.
- No rare or critical materials like cobalt or nickel are required.
- Eco-friendly: Lignavolt is a nano-porous carbon derived from sustainable, paper-industry byproducts.
This innovation addresses key challenges in hybrid-electric powertrains by offering cheaper, lighter, more efficient energy storage that lasts longer and works across all temperatures. It has strong implications for automotive, grid storage, and fast-charging technologies.
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