High-Performance Supercapacitors Based on One-Dimensional Polymeric Nanocomposites

1D nanomaterials, such as nanotubes and nanowires made of carbon materials, conducting polymers, or transient metal oxides are excellent as components in the electrodes of supercapacitors. The advantages include high capacitance, large surface area, and high conductivity. The 1D geometry gives directionality to charge and ion transfer. Various nanocomposites of two or more transient metal oxide nanomaterials, conducting polymers, and carbon nanotubes have been explored as electrodes in supercapacitors. Extraordinary values of specific capacitance, cycle stability, and energy density have been measured. Physical properties, such as mechanical properties and flexibility, have also been improved using some of the nanomaterials. The current state of the field shows the promise of the 1D nanocomposites as electrodes in supercapacitors. New materials, improved properties, and advanced manufacturing techniques will lead the future direction of the relevant research. Applications range from energy renewable devices such as electric cars to biomedical devices such as implants, which require frequent charge-discharge cycles.