KTH Researchers Unveil Future of Energy Storage with 3D Printed Glass Micro-Supercapacitors

Future Advancements in Energy Storage

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have demonstrated a groundbreaking method for producing 3D printed glass micro-supercapacitors (MSCs) that minimizes the challenges encountered during the fabrication of such intricate devices. This advancement could pave the way for compact and energy-efficient portable devices, including self-sustaining sensors, innovative wearable technologies, and various Internet of Things applications, as noted by Frank Niklaus, professor of micro- and nano-systems at KTH.

Addressing Key Challenges

The newly developed approach tackles two significant challenges in micro-supercapacitor fabrication: the need for increased electrode surface area and the provision of nanoscale channels for rapid ion transport. Utilizing ultrashort laser pulse 3D printing technology, the research effectively addresses these obstacles. According to Po-Han Huang, the study’s lead author, this method allows the creation of electrodes with a substantial number of open channels, maximizing surface area while enhancing ion transport speed.

Innovative Manufacturing Process

• Ultrashort laser pulses initiate dual reactions in hydrogen silsesquioxane (HSQ), a precursor material.
• One reaction forms self-organized nanoplates.
• The second reaction transforms the precursor into silicon-rich glass, integral to the 3D printing process.

The team showcased the effectiveness of this new process by 3D printing micro-supercapacitors that demonstrated excellent performance even under rapid charge and discharge cycles.