Improving the electrochemical performance of cement-based supercapacitors through microstructure optimization

In the pursuit of integrating renewable energy systems seamlessly with our existing infrastructure, the imperative to devise innovative applications of construction materials for energy storage has become paramount. This study delves into the interplay among active materials, pores, and binders within supercapacitor electrodes—a field yet to fully realize its potential due to the high specific surface area of active materials and limitations in structural integrity. As a proof of concept, carbon black (CB) was incorporated into the cement matrix to simulate the synergistic relationships within cement-based structural supercapacitor (CSSC). The inherent porosity of the cement matrix facilitates ion transport and storage, bolstering supercapacitor efficiency. Notably, increasing the CB content and controlling the formation of macropores led to a significant increase in areal capacitance, soaring from 54 mF/cm2 to 2188 mF/cm2, alongside a notable increase in conductivity (36.18 mS/cm). This research not only elucidates the synergy within cement-based supercapacitor electrodes but also positions cement-based materials as formidable pioneers in the supercapacitor market.