Biodegradable paper Supercapacitor

Facts for Prelims

Biodegradable paper Supercapacitor

News: Scientists at Gujarat Energy Research and Management Institute (GERMI) have developed the thinnest, lightweight and biodegradable paper-based supercapacitor.

What is a supercapacitor?
• A supercapacitor is an electrochemical charge storage device with a fast charging/discharging cycle, high power density and a longer life cycle.
• They are used in power-smoothening, pitch-control, start-stop, regenerative-braking, smart-grid, active heave compensation, and specialty UPS applications.

How did the scientists develop a biodegradable paper supercapacitor?
• Scientists have developed a supercapacitor from seaweed (marine macroalgae). This supercapacitor can fully charge a device within 10 seconds.
• The device is of high tensile strength and performance, as well as cost-effective, according to the researchers.
• The product can be used in electronics, memory backup systems, airbags, heavy machines, electric vehicles, etc.; hence, it holds a huge business prospect.

About GERMI:
• It is a centre of excellence in the energy sector, promoted by Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation Limited (GSPC), a Government of Gujarat Undertaking.
• GERMI is based in Gandhinagar, India, and it is a recognized Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIRO) by the Department of Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR), Government of India.