Is carbon black needed for energy storage

Could carbon black form a low-cost energy storage system?

According to a new study, two of humanity's most ubiquitous historical materials, carbon black and cement, may form the basis for a novel, low-cost energy storage system.

Can a carbon-cement device store energy?

MIT engineers created a carbon-cement supercapacitor that can store large amounts of energy. Made of just cement, water, and carbon black, the device could form the basis for inexpensive systems that store intermittently renewable energy, such as solar or wind energy.

What is the energy storage capacity of a carbon black network?

The energy storage capacity of this space-filling carbon black network of the high specific surface area accessible to charge storage is shown to be an intensive quantity, whereas the high-rate capability of the carbon-cement electrodes exhibits self-similarity due to the hydration porosity available for charge transport.

What is cement & carbon black?

Using cement and carbon black, this new tech offers an affordable and scalable energy storage solution for 'fluctuating' renewable energy sources. Microscopic image of a fractured surface through a cement composite material, overlaid with electrical discharge.

Why is carbon black important?

The addition of carbon black is important in paints and coatings as it enhances their UV protection properties. This makes them more resistant to fading and degradation when exposed to sunlight, which is particularly valuable in outdoor applications.

What percentage of carbon black should be used?

While 10% carbon black is the sweet spot for structural use, non-structural or low-stress applications can store more power with a higher percentage of carbon black. The team also noted that applying power to the material can generate heat.