Reinforcing the future of portable energy storage
Researchers at Nagaland University have announced a breakthrough in energy storage: a flexible supercapacitor capable of powering next-generation wearable electronics, electric vehicles (EVs), and renewable energy systems. This development marks the first comprehensive comparison of tungsten, vanadium, and cobalt doping in molybdenum diselenide for energy storage and demonstrates a working, bendable device rather than a lab-scale only concept.
The material science behind the breakthrough
The team’s work centers on cobalt-doped molybdenum diselenide (Co@MoSe₂), a two-dimensional material with superior charge transport properties. By introducing carefully controlled dopants—tungsten (W), vanadium (V), and cobalt (Co)—the researchers were able to evaluate how each element influences energy density, stability, and flexibility. Among the three, cobalt emerged as the most effective dopant, delivering higher energy storage performance while preserving mechanical pliability crucial for wearables and flexible devices.
What makes this achievement particularly notable is that the team did not stop at synthesising the material in the lab. They advanced to fabricating a working flexible supercapacitor prototype, showcasing its potential for real-life applications and industrial scalability. The synthesis employed a simple, eco-friendly hydrothermal process, aligning with broader goals of sustainable and scalable manufacturing.
Performance and durability at a glance
The Co@MoSe₂-based device demonstrates an energy density of 34.54 W h kg⁻¹, a figure competitive with many conventional energy storage devices used in wearables and EVs today. More importantly, the device sustains performance over extended lifetimes, withstanding at least 10,000 charge–discharge cycles without significant degradation. Its flexible nature means the capacitor retains functionality after repeated bending and twisting, addressing a key reliability concern for bendable electronics and vehicle-integrated energy systems.
Why flexibility matters
Wearables and EV components demand energy storage that can conform to curved surfaces, flex with motion, and endure dynamic mechanical stress. Traditional rigid capacitors and batteries can suffer from mechanical failure or performance drops when subjected to bending. The Nagaland University device tackles this challenge head-on, offering durable energy storage that can be integrated into clothing, armbands, or curved surfaces in dashboards and interiors of electric vehicles.
<h2 Practical applications on the horizon
Immediate opportunities include health-monitoring devices, IoT sensors, and robotics, where compact, rapid-charging energy storage is a key enabler. In electric mobility, flexible supercapacitors could enhance regenerative braking systems, provide quick acceleration boosts, and synergistically extend the lifespan of conventional batteries by absorbing peak loads and smoothing power delivery. Such capabilities align with national energy-security goals and the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, potentially reducing dependence on imported batteries by cultivating domestic manufacturing and materials research.
<h2 Industry impact and next steps
Dr. Vijeth H, Assistant Professor in Nagaland University’s Department of Physics, emphasises that the device blends flexibility, high energy storage, and durability—a trifecta crucial for future portable and wearable technologies. He notes that the comparative study of W, V, and Co doping in MoSe₂ is a first in energy storage research, with cobalt showing the best overall performance. The team is optimistic about scaling the approach, leveraging a straightforward synthesis route to facilitate industrial adoption.
Lead author Ms. Pewe-u Marhu outlines the roadmap: optimize the electrode–electrolyte interface, enhance safety through solid-state gel electrolytes, and scale the process to pilot-level production. She also mentions active engagement with industry partners to move the technology from prototype to commercialization, a process that could shorten the journey from the lab to market.
<h2 Collaboration, funding, and support
The Nagaland University project was conducted at the Advanced Materials for Device Applications (AMDA) Research Laboratory in Lumami. Advanced characterisation support came from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore via its INUP Program. Funding was provided by the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), a government initiative fostering 2D material research in India. The collaboration highlights a concerted push to position India as a leader in cutting-edge energy storage technologies.
<h2 About the researchers and the broader vision
Dr. Vijeth H described the work as a milestone for North East India and a meaningful step toward sustainable and self-reliant energy storage systems. The research underscores how regional scientific talent can contribute to nationwide goals, including energy independence and clean energy deployment. The findings have been published in RSC Advances, a peer-reviewed journal of the Royal Society of Chemistry, validating the work within the global scientific community.
<h2 Looking ahead
As wearables become more embedded in daily life and electric vehicles proliferate, resilient energy storage will be decisive for user experience and reliability. The Nagaland University team’s flexible supercapacitor offers a compelling path forward—one that integrates material science innovation with practical device engineering to meet the growing demand for safe, scalable, and high-performance energy storage.
