Electric Double Layer
Capacitors
Electric
double layer capacitors are two-terminal energy storage devices that
collect voltage as current flows through an electrical circuit. They generate
electrical field between two conductor plates and are referred to as super
capacitors. Electric double-layer capacitors are supported the operational
principle of the electrical double-layer that is shaped at the interface
between activated charcoal and a solution.
The activated charcoal is used as an electrode, and the
principle behind the capacitor. Activated charcoal is employed in its solid
form, and the electrolytic fluid is liquid. When these materials are available
contact with one another, the positive and negative poles are distributed
relative to each other over an extremely short distance. Such a phenomenon is
known as an electric double-layer. When an external electric field is applied,
the electric double-layer that is formed in the vicinity of the activated
charcoal's surface within the electrolytic fluid is used as the fundamental
capacitor structure.
Benefits
1. This design allows farad-order capacitance in a small
device.
(When activated charcoal, with its large surface area, is
used the thickness of the dielectric is extremely thin.)
2. There is no need for special charging circuits or for
control during discharge.
3. Overcharging or overdischarging does not have a negative
effect on the lifespan, as it does with batteries.
4. This technology is extremely "clean energy" in
terms of environmental friendliness.
5. Because the electronic elements may be soldered, there are
no problems with unstable contacts as there are with batteries.
Weaknesses
1. The lifespan is limited because of the use of electrolyte.
2. The electrolyte may leak if the capacitor is used
incorrectly.
3. When compared to aluminum electrolytic capacitors, these
capacitors have high internal resistances and thus cannot be used in AC
circuits.
Characteristics
Electric
double-layer capacitors do not use a chemical reaction such as a redox
reaction but rather store electricity by means of the physical adsorption of
ions to the large specific surface area of activated carbon. Compared to
aluminum electrolytic capacitors, Electric double-layer capacitors offer larger
capacity, but their larger internal resistance means that their use as ripple
absorption for alternating current circuits is not appropriate. For this
reason, Electric double-layer capacitors are mainly used like rechargeable
batteries, to provide energy backup in direct current circuits.
The advantages of Electric double-layer capacitors over rechargeable
batteries are listed below.
High current (fast) charging / discharging is possible
Long cycle life, allowing for charging / discharging tens of
thousands of times
Can be utilized in a good range of temperatures, offer stable
operation even at low temperatures
Very safe, with no risk of explosion or ignition
Environmentally-friendly, with no heavy metals used
Examples of Application
Taking advantage of the benefits described above, Electric
double-layer capacitors are used broadly in applications such as the
following:
1. Memory backup for timers, programs, etc., in video and
audio equipment.
2. Backup power sources when changing batteries for portable
electronic equipment.
3. Power sources for equipment that uses solar cells, such as
watches and display lights.
4. Starters for small motors and cell motors.
Comments
Post a Comment