Exploring the potential of construction-compatible materials in structural supercapacitors for energy storage in the built environment

Abstract

As urbanization accelerates, the need for innovative solutions that integrate energy storage within the built environment (BE) becomes increasingly vital for sustainable and multifunctional infrastructure. This review paper delves into the pioneering concept of structural supercapacitors (SSCs), which seamlessly embed energy storage capabilities directly into construction materials such as ordinary portland cement, geopolymers, magnesium phosphate cement, aluminate cement, bricks, wood, and polymers. These materials are readily available and possess inherent structural strength, making them ideal candidates for functionalization as energy storage devices. SSCs rely on the combination of mechanical strength and electrochemical capabilities, allowing structures to serve dual functions—bearing mechanical loads while storing and releasing electrical energy. This review discusses the key components of SSCs, including conductive fillers, electrodes, and electrolytes, and evaluates their electrochemical and mechanical performance. Several critical research gaps have been identified, including the need for alternative conductive fillers to improve ionic conductivity and specific capacitance, advanced additives to enhance multifunctionality and optimization of the interaction between fillers and substrates. Additionally, post-curing treatments and the control of porosity and microstructure require further exploration to balance electrochemical performance with mechanical robustness. Challenges related to integrating SSCs into practical applications, such as environmental durability and mechanical load-bearing capacity, are also highlighted. Furthermore, the potential of 3D printing technology to create customizable SSC structures is identified as a promising area for future research. This review contributes to advancing SSCs and their potential integration into sustainable infrastructure by highlighting the gaps and future directions of the existing literature.