High-performance flexible all-solid-state supercapacitors integrated with self-healing hydrogel electrolyte and silver nanowire electrodes

Abstract

Manufacturing highly chemically stable and flexible all-solid-state supercapacitors (ASCs) is still a challenge, especially for portable applications subjected to mechanical stress. In this work, the electrolyte, prepared from cellulose nanofibers reinforced with gel substrates of polyvinyl alcohol and aqueous polyurethane, exhibits exceptional self-healing properties and high elasticity (stretchable up to 553 %). On the other hand, the electrode material, prepared by adding silver nanowires into aqueous polyurethane, demonstrates a high surface capacitance (578 mF cm⁻²) and excellent transparency. The ASC, constructed based on their integration, exhibits good energy/power density (19.5 μWh cm⁻²/503.7 μW cm⁻²), along with a high surface capacitance (390 mF cm⁻²) due to the strong stability and compatibility between the electrodes and the electrolyte. Furthermore, it displays excellent chemical stability, with minimal loss of electrical capacitance under various bending conditions. This work provides design inspiration for developing reliable energy storage devices with significant potential for integration into wearable applications.