A research team from Nagaland University has created an innovative gelatin-based hydrogel membrane electrolyte that serves as a safe, flexible, and biodegradable substitute for traditional electrolytes used in supercapacitors. These devices are known for their rapid charging and high energy output, and they play a crucial role in applications ranging from electric vehicles to emergency medical devices.
This groundbreaking research, recently published in the journal Materials Today Chemistry, has the potential to lead to cleaner and more sustainable energy storage technologies. It could significantly impact sustainable energy solutions, particularly in sectors such as electric mobility, medical wearables, and portable electronics.
Conventional energy storage systems typically rely on liquid electrolytes that can leak, corrode components, and pose environmental risks. To address these issues, the research team has developed a novel material known as “KI-doped glyoxal-crosslinked gelatin hydrogel membrane electrolyte” (GNHME). This innovative creation merges gelatin—a naturally biodegradable protein—with glyoxal, a crosslinking agent that enhances mechanical flexibility, and potassium iodide (KI), a redox-active dopant that improves ionic conductivity and capacitance.
According to the researchers, the result is a semi-transparent and flexible hydrogel that efficiently conducts ions while maintaining stability over numerous charge-discharge cycles, making it particularly suitable for next-generation solid-state supercapacitors.
Dr. Nurul Alam Choudhury, an Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Nagaland University, emphasized the significance of developing biodegradable, redox-active solid electrolytes, stating that this achievement marks a vital step toward creating eco-friendly, high-performance energy storage systems that can seamlessly integrate with renewable energy sources. He indicated that this technology could play a pivotal role in supporting electric mobility and advancing green energy initiatives, aligning with India”s sustainable development objectives.
In contrast to traditional liquid electrolytes, this quasi-solid hydrogel is not only biodegradable but also leak-proof and exhibits outstanding electrochemical performance. The gelatin/glyoxal covalent hydrogel possesses superabsorbent properties, allowing it to absorb water up to 717 percent of its weight. The addition of KI significantly enhances the energy and power densities of supercapacitors, while glyoxal provides superior flexibility and resilience compared to other crosslinking agents.
This research heralds a promising advancement in the quest for sustainable energy solutions, highlighting the potential for biodegradable materials to transform energy storage technologies.
