Scientists from the Joint Institute for Nuclear Research, Dubna State University, and the Institute of Nuclear Physics of the Republic of Kazakhstan developed, manufactured, and tested a lithium-ion capacitor based on biomass waste with an over 10000-cycle lifespan, which is a record number for such electronic components. In the future, the development can be used to extend the service life of modern electronic devices. The results of the work are published in the Molecules.

The potential applications of activated carbon derived from rice husks by chemical activation were explored, including its use in the removal of heavy metals ororganic pollutants and as an active material in hybrid energy storage devices. In addition, a methodology for scaling activated carbon production was proposed to facilitate its industrial implementation.

A researcher at the Laboratory of Neutron Physics at JINR, a senior researcher at the Neutron Physics Laboratory at INP Meir Yerdauletov told the TASS News Agency that the components of the new capacitor are based on activated carbon derived from rice husks and walnut shells.

“According to the results of experimental testing, a lithium-ion capacitor based on the obtained activated carbon samples operated for more than 10000 cycles. These are very high values for lithium-ion capacitors,” Meir Yerdauletov said.

The scientist emphasised that the tests were conducted in conditions simulating intensive use, after which the device retained 80% of its original capacity, which is a very high result for this type of capacitor as well.