SUPERCAPACITORS: STATUS AND PERSPECTIVE TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE ENERGY STORAGE

This thesis delves into the innovative world of supercapacitors, highlighting their characteristics and growing importance as energy storage systems. Beginning with an exploration of their struc-tural components and operating principles, the study classifies supercapacitors into Electrochemi-cal Double-Layer Capacitors (EDLCs), pseudocapacitors and hybrid supercapacitors. The discussion continues with a comparative analysis of supercapacitors and batteries, underlining their complementary roles in hybrid energy storage systems. Particular emphasis is placed upon applications in the automotive sector, including stop & start systems, regenerative breaking, elec-tric buses and also their integration into Formula 1’s Energy Recovery Systems (ERS). Beyond the automotive industry, the thesis investigates the role of supercapacitors in renewable energy systems, such as microgrids and wind turbines, and in consumer electronics, where they are increasingly used to address energy efficiency challenges. Lastly, the thesis outlines the ongoing advancements in materials science and hybrid technologies aimed at enhancing the energy density and efficiency of supercapacitors, opening the way for their expanded use in future energy systems.