CarPolCap

Purpose and goal

The overall goal of the project was to demonstrate a supercapacitor based on carbon nano-material. Two different prototypes have been delivered. For that specific CNT and CNF networks have been tailored to provide carbon-based electrodes. Their characterization and integration into a useful demonstrator also provided not only better theoretical knowledge but also a basic technological platform for further development and realization of a commercial product.

Expected results and effects

The project delivered two prototypes, with improved performance by a factor of 5, due to the use of nanostructured materials and advanced processing techniques developed in the project; they represent a proof-of-concept and provide a platform for future projects on upscaling and integration. The multi-disciplinary and collaborative nature of the project resulted in the development of a CMOS compatible growth method for CNFs. We see a possible commercialization in a 3 year perspective, in line with expected timeframe for industrial availability of the fabrication processes.

Planned approach and implementation

The project was carried with a major collaborative effort between the University of Cyprus, Smoltek and Chalmers University. The growth of CNF electrodes by Smoltek was performed using two techniques- one of them successfully utilizing the nano-particles from Cyprus - combined with the material characterization at Chalmers University and prototyping at Smoltek lead to the demonstration of the improved performance of the supercapacitor demonstrators.