Innovative Flexible Supercapacitor Emerges from Singapore Research
Singapore, Wednesday, 25 June 2025.
Researchers at the National University of Singapore unveil a twistable, fiber-shaped supercapacitor that maintains 92% capacitance after extensive use, revolutionizing power options for wearables.
Advancements in Wearable Technology
In a significant breakthrough, researchers from the National University of Singapore have unveiled a highly flexible and twistable fiber-shaped supercapacitor, which retains 92% of its capacitance after 10,000 charge-discharge cycles [1]. This development marks a considerable advancement in flexible electronics, specifically within the domain of wearable technology, as it merges high energy performance with mechanical durability.
Technical Innovations and Methods
The core of this innovation lies in the unique use of ZnMn2O4 nanostructures, which are meticulously grown on carbon yarn through a one-step electrodeposition technique. This method not only optimizes the electrochemical performance of the supercapacitor but also enhances its structural integrity [1]. The carefully controlled electrodeposition process ensures scalability and reproducibility, vital for commercial applications in wearable electronics.
Superior Performance Metrics
The resulting supercapacitor exhibits a maximum areal capacitance of 87.6 mF/cm² at a low scan rate, a notable achievement when considering its lightweight and compact volume [1]. Additionally, the supercapacitor sustains an energy density of 11 μWh/cm² and a power density of 385 μW/cm², maintaining excellent performance even under substantial mechanical stresses such as bending and twisting [1]. These metrics underscore the potential of this technology in practical energy storage applications for smart fabrics.
Impact on Future Designs
With their ability to be knitted into fabrics, the fiber-shaped supercapacitors allow seamless integration into everyday apparel, enabling real-time data collection and power supply for electronic devices [1]. This opens new horizons in integrating technology into textiles, paving the way for future innovations in smart clothing and highly efficient energy solutions. Such advancements highlight the dynamic intersections of textile engineering and electronics, broadening the scope for further research and development in these fields.