What is the difference between a battery and a supercapacitor?
1:36
In a battery, charge is transferred between the electrodes and the electrolyte via chemical reactions. This flow of electrons generates an electrical current that flows through an externally connected circuit. Batteries are known for their high energy density. This is why they’re used in applications that call for current draw over long periods of time. A supercapacitor’s charge-transfer process is fundamentally different. Similar to a capacitor, charge is stored electrostatically between two electrodes. A supercapacitor is different from a typical capacitor due its double-layer of stored electrical charge. In this double-layer, charges are stored electrostatically between the electrodes and a wall of oppositely charged non-specifically absorbed ions. Supercapacitors can deliver power almost immediately -- a quality that is highly desirable in backup power applications where response time in the event of a power outage is critical. Supercapacitors also have inherently better thermal management. Batteries have multiple mechanisms for internal heat generation Including their internal chemical reaction. In some cases, a sudden rise in heat can lead to thermal runaway and a possible explosion. For these reasons and more, supercapacitors have a higher cycle life, better high and low temperature performance, and better efficiency than batteries.
In a battery, charge is transferred between the electrodes and the electrolyte via chemical reactions. This flow of electrons generates an electrical current that flows through an externally connected circuit. Batteries are known for their high energy density. This is why they’re used in applications that call for current draw over long periods of time. A supercapacitor’s charge-transfer process is fundamentally different. Similar to a capacitor, charge is stored electrostatically between two electrodes. A supercapacitor is different from a typical capacitor due its double-layer of stored electrical charge. In this double-layer, charges are stored electrostatically between the electrodes and a wall of oppositely charged non-specifically absorbed ions. Supercapacitors can deliver power almost immediately -- a quality that is highly desirable in backup power applications where response time in the event of a power outage is critical. Supercapacitors also have inherently better thermal management. Batteries have multiple mechanisms for internal heat generation Including their internal chemical reaction. In some cases, a sudden rise in heat can lead to thermal runaway and a possible explosion. For these reasons and more, supercapacitors have a higher cycle life, better high and low temperature performance, and better efficiency than batteries.
Electronic components Similar Videos
-
EV fuses from Eaton
1:34
Circuits in EV applications all require cost effective and highly reliable fuses that are coordinated with other protection components in downstream circuits. Designers are also faced with the need for smaller components to fit in tighter spaces
-
What are film capacitors?
1:57
Metallized polypropylene film capacitors use a polypropylene dielectric with a thin layer of metal deposited on it. This film is then wound around a core, leads are attached, and the capacitor is enclosed in a plastic case.
-
The Role, Importance, and Requirements of Timing Devices-ITD2024
47:18
Timing devices play a pivotal role in modern electronics. This technical presentation highlights their importance and the stringent requirements they must meet to ensure optimal performance.
