Dendrite-free zinc-ion hybrid supercapacitor with jute-derived carbon and nanostructured zinc on steel mesh for EVs

• Published in: Journal of energy storage 2024-10, Vol.100, p.113635, Article 113635
• Main Authors: Mohamed, Mostafa M., Aziz, Md. Abdul, Hussain, Arshad, Hardianto, Yuda Prima, Yamani, Zain H.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biomass-derived carbon; Electric vehicles; Steel mesh; Zinc dendrite; Zinc-ion hybrid supercapacitors
• ISSN: 2352-152X
• DOI: 10.1016/j.est.2024.113635

Aqueous zinc-ion hybrid supercapacitors (ZnHSCs) have emerged as a promising energy storage device due to their low cost, excellent safety profile, and eco-friendly nature. However, commercialization has been hampered by issues, such as dendrite development and low energy density. Herein, we demonstrate the usage of Zn nanosheets electrodeposited on stainless-steel mesh (Zn ED-SS) as a new anode and jute-based activated carbon on graphite foil with a porous surface as a cathode material to improve challenges associated with ZnHSCs. The strategic integration of Zn nanosheets onto the distinctive surface of stainless-steel mesh results in a significant enhancement in the electrochemical performance of ZnHSC devices. This remarkable improvement can be attributable to two important factors: a significant increase in active sites and a reduction in dendritic growth. The Zn ED-SS symmetric batteries outperformed the pristine Zn foil in terms of stability at a high current density of 3 mA cm−2 with 1.5 mAh cm−2. The assembled ZnHSCs have outstanding energy densities of 84 Wh kg−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and a power density of 400 W kg−1. Additionally, they have a specific capacitance of 236 Fg−1 at 0.5 Ag−1. At a lower current density of 0.1 Ag−1, ZnHSCs have an even higher specific capacitance (305 Fg−1) and energy density (108 Wh kg−1) while maintaining an appropriate power density. Our analysis shows a 95 % capacity retention rate after 10,000 cycles. Solar cells were connected to ZnHSCs, providing dependable power for the operation of electric vehicles. This research has the potential to revolutionize energy storage, addressing rising demand and making a significant impact. Aqueous zinc-ion hybrid supercapacitors (ZnHSCs) show promise for energy storage due to cost-effectiveness and eco-friendliness, yet they face challenges like dendrite development. We demonstrate improved performance using Zn nanosheets electrodeposited on stainless-steel mesh as an anode and jute-based activated carbon on graphite foil as a cathode. This improves active sites, reduces dendritic development, and achieves remarkable stability with impressive energy and power densities. Our investigation reveals 95 % capacity retention after 10,000 cycles. Integration with solar cells could revolutionize energy storage, meeting rising demand. [Display omitted] •The introduction of a distinctive electrodeposition for steel mesh, exhibited as a scaffold, includes the electrodeposition of Zn nanosheets fo