Groundbreaking flexible supercapacitor from Nagaland University
Researchers at Nagaland University have introduced a flexible supercapacitor capable of powering next-generation wearable electronics, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and electric vehicles (EVs). This breakthrough marks a significant advance in energy storage, combining pliability with durable high-energy performance. The project represents a pioneering comparison of tungsten, vanadium, and cobalt doping in molybdenum diselenide (MoSe2) for energy storage, moving beyond laboratory demonstrations to a working, flexible device.
From lab-scale material to a usable prototype
The study stands out as the first comprehensive evaluation of doping strategies in MoSe2 for energy storage, specifically comparing tungsten, vanadium, and cobalt substitutions. Among the dopants tested, cobalt emerged as the most effective at enhancing the device’s energy storage capabilities while maintaining mechanical flexibility. The team used a simple, eco-friendly hydrothermal synthesis to prepare the cobalt-doped MoSe2, underscoring the approach’s scalability for industrial adoption.
Device performance and durability
The resulting flexible supercapacitor, designated Co@MoSe2, demonstrates an energy density of 34.54 Wh/kg and shows remarkable stability, retaining performance over more than 10,000 charge–discharge cycles. Importantly, the device maintains functionality after repeated bending and twisting, a critical feature for wearable electronics and other flexible applications.
Who led the work and how it was done
The research was led by Dr. Vijeth H, Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics at Nagaland University, who conceptualized the study and supervised the methodology. Experimental work was carried out by Research Scholar Ms. Pewe-u Marhu under his guidance at the Advanced Materials for Device Applications (AMDA) Research Laboratory in Lumami. Advanced characterization support came from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore via its INUP Program, and funding was provided by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), as part of a national push toward 2D materials.
Implications for wearables, IoT, and electric mobility
Immediate applications include health-monitoring devices, IoT gadgets, and robotics, with potential for significant impact in electric vehicles. Flexible supercapacitors like Co@MoSe2 could complement regenerative braking systems, provide rapid power boosts, and extend battery lifespans by absorbing and delivering energy quickly and efficiently. This aligns with broader energy storage goals and the Indian government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which seeks to reduce dependence on imported batteries and advance sustainable energy technologies.
Industry collaboration and future steps
Looking ahead, the researchers aim to optimize the electrode–electrolyte interface and explore solid-state gel electrolytes to enhance safety. Scaling up the synthesis process toward pilot-level production is a key objective, with industry partnerships being actively pursued to bring this technology closer to commercialisation.
What the researchers say
“This device combines flexibility, high energy storage, and durability, which are critical for future portable and wearable technologies,” said Dr. Vijeth H. He emphasized that the study is the first to compare tungsten, vanadium, and cobalt doping in MoSe2 for energy storage and noted cobalt’s superior performance. “Using a simple, eco-friendly hydrothermal process to synthesise the material, the innovation is scalable for industrial adoption.”
Ms. Pewe-u Marhu added, “The next steps include optimising the electrode–electrolyte interface, improving safety with solid-state gel electrolytes, and scaling up the process to pilot-level production. We are also exploring industry collaborations to bring the technology closer to commercialisation.”
Conclusion
Developed at Nagaland University’s AMDA Lab, with support from IISc and ANRF, the Co@MoSe2 flexible supercapacitor represents a significant step in energy storage innovation. By combining flexibility, durability, and high energy density, this research advances the feasibility of wearable electronics, smart systems, and future EV technologies, contributing to cleaner energy and greater storage resilience.
