Aug-21-14
By replacing graphene with hemp fibers, scientists have developed a high-performance electrode that could lead to less expensive, and more robust, supercapacitors.
The team, from the University of Alberta, constructed the electrodes using the hemp's inner bark fibers (bast fibers). These fibers have a unique structure—the most interesting fact being that their weight is made up of 70 percent crystalline cellulose that can be processed into graphene-like carbon nanosheets. The sheets are wrinkled and full of holes, which is ideal for the high surface area demands of high-efficiency supercapacitors.
Supercapacitors made with the hemp-based nanosheets not only delivered high energy efficiency, they were also able to function within wider temperature margins. And they cost about 1000 times less than actual graphene, with manufacturing costs ranging between $500 and $1000 a ton.
More Info about this Invention:
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PHYS.ORG]
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GIZMAG.COM]
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