INL, Creating value at nanoscale

Nanoelectronics High-performance rechargeable lithium batteries and super-capacitors based on novel nanostructures

Among the various existing technology, Li-ion battery have become the most acceptable power source for portable electronic devices, due to its high energy density (gravimetric as well as volumetric) and design flexibility. Ions and electrons will move quickly into and out of the bulk electrode materials leading fast charging and discharging only if the electrode materials are in nano dimension. On the other hand, the high surface area of the nano material makes it possible to pack much more active material during electrode fabrication, thus increasing energy capacity. Our group aims to synthesize various nanoarchitectures like nanowires, nanotubes, nanosheets, etc. to achieve a high rate capability and stable capacity upon cycling.

Recently, electrochemical super capacitors have become attractive electrochemical devices because of their high power density and longer cycle life. These are used as auxiliary energy devices along with batteries to sustain the high power demand. Energy-storage mechanism in these devices is generally based on the charge separation at the solid electrode and electrolyte interface, and basically pseudo-Faradaic in nature. Practically developments in supercapacitors are aimed at improving the energy density and hence the specific capacitance. Materials having a large accessible surface area, the highest conductivity per unit mass and electrochemical inertness are attractive electrode material for supercapacitors. Our group is focusing on the synthesis various nano electrode materials with improved architect to get high specific capacitance and improved rate capability.