MetSuperCap: Metrology for static and dynamic characterisation of supercapacitors

Unlike Li-ion batteries, supercapacitors (SCs) do not use rare or polluting metals, have a life cycle even two orders of magnitude higher than that of batteries, and do not suffer from either runaway effects or extreme temperatures. They therefore represent an eco-friendly and reliable technology, which can replace batteries or accompany them in high power density applications. To support the growing use of SCs in real and real-time applications, accurate characterization even under operating conditions is required. Furthermore, validated circuital and software models are needed to identify the SCs behaviour in dynamic applications. Along slower but highly accurate methods, novel quick, traceable, and effective measurement techniques are required to evaluate SCs’ State of Charge (SoC) and State of Health (SoH) and to promote the uptake of SC and banks in consumer, energy, transport, aerospace and in many other applications. The MetSuperCap project aims to improve the characterisation of SCs and SC banks by providing an accurate and reliable identification of their parameters in the laboratory and in operation.