Superkondensatorë

Superkondensatorë, also known as ultracapacitors or electrochemical double-layer capacitors (EDLCs), are a type of energy storage device that bridges the gap between conventional capacitors and rechargeable batteries. Unlike batteries that store energy through chemical reactions, supercapacitors store energy electrostatically by accumulating ions on the surface of electrodes. This process allows for much faster charging and discharging cycles compared to batteries, as there are no chemical transformations involved.

The fundamental principle behind supercapacitors is the formation of an electrochemical double-layer. When a voltage is applied across the electrodes, ions from an electrolyte migrate to the electrode surfaces, forming a layer of charge. This layer, separated by a very small distance (on the order of nanometers) from the electrode material, creates a high capacitance. The large surface area of the electrode materials, often activated carbon, is crucial for maximizing this charge storage.

Supercapacitors offer several advantages. They boast very high power density, meaning they can deliver large amounts of energy very quickly, making them suitable for applications requiring rapid bursts of power. They also have a long cycle life, enduring hundreds of thousands or even millions of charge-discharge cycles without significant degradation. However, their energy density is typically lower than that of batteries, meaning they cannot store as much energy for a given weight or volume. This characteristic limits their use in applications requiring long-duration energy supply. Common applications include regenerative braking systems in vehicles, backup power for electronic devices, and grid energy storage.