Advances in supercapacitor technology: Materials, design, and emerging applications

The technology for supercapacitors (SCs) has advanced significantly as a result of the rising need for sustainable and effective energy storage solutions. SCs still have a lower energy density than batteries, while having a higher power density, quicker charge-discharge cycles, and a longer life cycle. Enhancing SC performance by advancements in electrode materials, electrolytes, and device designs has been the focus of recent research. Electric double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) are dominated by carbon-based materials such as graphene, carbon nanotubes, and activated carbon. Pseudocapacitive charge storage is made possible by conducting polymers (PANI, PPy, PEDOT) and transition metal compounds (TMOs, TMSs, and TMPs). MXene-MOF composites and core-shell nanostructures are two examples of hybrid materials that have shown promise in enhancing conductivity, stability, and capacitance. Furthermore, new electrolytes with increased voltage windows and energy densities include ionic liquids and redox-enhanced aqueous systems. The current review focuses on the latest developments in SC materials and designs, highlighting their potential uses in wearable electronics, renewable energy integration, and electric cars.