Microprinted, form factor-free transparent power sources

Abstract

The growing attention for advanced optoelectronics has fueled the continuous exploration of transparent wireless applications as breakthrough technology, offering the potential to reveal visual information through electronic displays. To ensure the effective functionality of transparent wireless devices, it is crucial that their power sources exhibit high transparency while maintaining steady electrochemical characteristics. Among the various energy storage systems, supercapacitors (SCs) have emerged as a promising option due to their power capabilities, outstanding cyclability, diverse materials, and cost- effective scalability. This article presents an overview of the current state and challenges associated with transparent SCs, emphasizing their essential materials, enhancements in performance, and incorporation into practical devices. In overview, we outlined the recent advancements in transparent SCs as a prospective energy solution for upcoming intelligent optoelectronics. As an initial step, we conducted a review of the relevant literature on optical princicples and the operational mechanism of transparent materials. Following this, we systematically examined the materials chemistry, building configuration, and manufacturing methodologies associated with transparent conductive electrodes (TCEs). Drawing on a foundational comprehension of optical principles and the operational mechanism of transparent materials, we in-depth explore structural design, the materials chemistry, and manufacturing techniques of TCEs. In this dissertation, we focused on two primary objectives: (1) the production of transparent SCs utilizing advanced manufacturing tecunique (electrohydrodynamic (EHD) jet-printing) and their subsequent monolithical integration into transparent devices, and (2) the development of multi-foldable transparent SCs characterized by outstanding mechanical properties via eco-friendly cellulose-based materials.