Master thesis Assignment: Development of a Cement-Based Supercapacitor
Background
Carbon–cement composites can combine mechanical strength with electrochemical energy storage capability. Materials with a percolating carbon black network inside a cementitious matrix allow storage through electric double-layer formation in a liquid electrolyte facing a conductive surface. Such composites can achieve high energy densities >1 kWh/m³ when designed properly, opening possibilities for “structural supercapacitors” that could store and release energy while serving as load-bearing components in buildings and infrastructure.
Assignment
This MSc assignment focuses on developing a cement-based supercapacitor prototype. The proposed system consists of two conductive layers and a porous inner layer acting as an electrolyte reservoir. All parts are cement-based. The conductive parts must contain enough carbon to ensure electrical conductivity without compromising mechanical performance, while the inner part should maintain high porosity to retain liquid electrolyte and ensure ion transport between the electrodes.
Activities
The project will involve experimental and analytical activities aimed at developing and understanding a cement-based supercapacitor system. The following main tasks are envisaged:
- Development of a conductive cement composite: Design and preparation of cementitious mixtures containing conductive additives. Measurement of electrical conductivity to identify the percolation threshold for carbon and the optimal balance between mechanical strength and conductivity.
- Fabrication of a layered or separated supercapacitor structure. This may take the form of a three-layer cement structure or an alternative arrangement that ensures electronic separation and ionic connection.
- Characterization of supercapacitor performance: electrochemical tests such as cyclic voltammetry, charge–discharge cycling, and impedance spectroscopy to evaluate the capacitance, energy density, and charge–discharge efficiency.
Contact:
André ten Elshof (daily supervisor), Faculty S&T, email j.e.tenelshof@utwente.nl
Mohammad Mehrali (daily supervisor), Faculty ET