Supracapacitance

Supracapacitance refers to a theoretical concept that extends the principles of supercapacitors. While supercapacitors store energy electrostatically, supracapacitance suggests a hypothetical mechanism that would involve a combination of electrostatic and faradaic (electrochemical) charge storage, but in a manner that transcends the typical limitations of current supercapacitor technology. It implies a higher energy density than achievable with conventional electrochemical double-layer capacitors (EDLCs) and pseudocapacitors, potentially bridging the gap between supercapacitors and batteries.

The term is not widely established in mainstream scientific literature and is often used speculatively to describe advanced energy storage concepts that might achieve significantly higher energy densities. Research into new materials and architectures for energy storage is continually exploring possibilities that could be described as supracapacitive if they offer a substantial leap in performance. This could involve novel electrode materials with unique charge storage mechanisms or innovative electrolyte designs. The exact scientific underpinnings of supracapacitance remain largely theoretical, focusing on envisioned advancements rather than current, realized technologies.