Kohima, Nov 3 (NationPress) A dedicated research team from Nagaland University has successfully created an innovative gelatin-based hydrogel membrane electrolyte that is both eco-friendly and biodegradable. This novel electrolyte serves as a secure, flexible alternative to traditional electrolytes utilized in supercapacitors.

Supercapacitors are known for their rapid charging capabilities and high energy output, finding applications in a range of devices from electric vehicles to emergency medical tools.

Published in the journal Materials Today Chemistry, this groundbreaking research could lead to more sustainable energy solutions. It has significant implications for sustainable energy storage systems, particularly in electric vehicles, medical wearables, and portable electronics.

Conventional energy storage systems rely on liquid electrolytes, which can leak, corrode components, and result in environmental harm.

To tackle these issues, the research team developed a unique ‘KI-doped glyoxal-crosslinked gelatin hydrogel membrane electrolyte’ (GNHME).

This innovative material merges gelatin—a naturally biodegradable protein—with glyoxal, a crosslinking agent that boosts mechanical flexibility, and potassium iodide (KI), a redox-active dopant that enhances ionic conductivity and capacitance.

The team reports that the outcome is a semi-transparent, flexible hydrogel that conducts ions safely and maintains stability over thousands of charge-discharge cycles, making it perfect for the next generation of solid-state supercapacitors.

Dr. Nurul Alam Choudhury, Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry at Nagaland University, elaborated that the creation of biodegradable, redox-active solid electrolytes is a vital step towards achieving eco-friendly, high-performance energy storage systems that are compatible with renewable energy.

“This technology has the potential to significantly contribute to electric mobility and green energy initiatives, aligning with India’s sustainable development objectives,” he noted.

In contrast to traditional liquid electrolytes, this quasi-solid hydrogel is biodegradable, leak-proof, and demonstrates outstanding electrochemical performance.

The gelatin/glyoxal covalent hydrogel can absorb water up to an impressive 717 percent. The addition of KI notably enhances the energy and power densities of supercapacitors, while glyoxal provides superior flexibility and durability compared to other crosslinking agents.