Research Projects

This project tackles the requirement for advanced miniaturized power sources to support the future of portable electronics in healthcare, environmental, and industrial sectors. Microbatteries are hindered by limited lifespan and safety issues, while traditional symmetric microsupercapacitors (MSCs) are restricted by a limited operating voltage. Our research aims to address these challenges by developing high-performance asymmetric microsupercapacitors (AMSCs) that utilize the distinct properties of MXenes as the negative electrode, combined with optimized pseudocapacitive materials as the positive electrode. This asymmetric configuration is expected to considerably expand the operating voltage range, thereby enhancing the energy density of the devices while maintaining the high power density and long cycle life typical of supercapacitors. Our approach involves creating interdigitated AMSC structures on flexible polyimide substrates using scalable, lithography-free methods such as laser scribing and screen printing. A quasi-solid-state electrolyte will provide all-solid-state flexibility and environmental stability. Comprehensive electrochemical and mechanical testing will confirm the device's performance and durability under stress. The ultimate goal is to integrate these flexible AMSCs with micro energy harvesting modules (e.g., triboelectric nanogenerators, solar cells) and flexible sensors to showcase compact, self-powered microelectronic systems. This research is innovative in pushing the energy density boundaries of MXene-based devices through a customized asymmetric design and demonstrating their fabrication via scalable flexible methods. Its significance lies in offering a reliable, autonomous, and sustainable power solution for future wearable healthcare devices, smart agricultural sensors, and industrial applications, ultimately reducing dependence on traditional batteries and promoting widespread, maintenance-free sensing technologies.