Metrology for static and dynamic characterisation of supercapacitors

The EU’s regulation 2023/1542 concerning new batteries and battery waste is focused on reducing the negative environmental impact of batteries. Supercapacitors (SCs) represent a ‘greener’ alternative to conventional batteries and can either be used on their own or be paired with higher-power density applications. The many benefits of SCs include an incredibly long-life cycle that is about a hundred times longer than batteries, no thermal runaway risk over a wide range of temperatures as well as no critical charging and discharging limits. However, in order to promote industrial uptake current measurement facilities need to be improved. This includes developing rapid measurement techniques that allow for the definition of State of Charge (SoC) and State of Health (SoH) in SCs.

This project aims to develop a database of voltage and current patterns for the characterisation of SCs and SC banks. In addition, the project aims to publish a good practice guide to provide a clear understand of how to conduct these measurements, as well as assess their uncertainty. An advanced hardware test using calibration and uncertainty workflows will be developed that allows modelling of SCs up to 25 kWh and discharge currents of up to 500 A.  Additionally, the project will develop rapid methods for the assessment of SoC and SoH in SCs and publish their data in an open-access database. The project results will support the European Strategic Energy Technology (SET) Plan and the United Nation’s sustainable development goal for affordable and clean energy.