NU develops safer hydrogel electrolyte

DIMAPUR, APRIL 6 (MExN): Nagaland University researchers have developed a sustainable hydrogel membrane electrolyte using the natural biopolymer chitosan, offering a safer and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional liquid electrolytes used in supercapacitors.

According to a press release, the team also demonstrated the practical application of the technology by developing a prototype supercapacitor capable of powering a red LED indicator.

Supercapacitors are energy storage devices known for rapid charging and discharging and long operational cycles, with applications in renewable energy systems, electric vehicles and portable electronics. However, conventional liquid electrolytes often face issues such as leakage, volatility and safety risks.

To address these challenges, the research team developed a quasi-solid hydrogel electrolyte based on chitosan. Potassium oxalate was used as an ionic crosslinker, forming a stable three-dimensional network that enables efficient ion transport. The resulting hydrogel membrane combines high ionic conductivity with mechanical stability, making it suitable for use in solid-state electrical double-layer capacitors.

The findings were published in the International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, a peer-reviewed international journal.

The research was co-authored by Dipankar Hazarika, with Nuphizo Shijoh and Marjo A. Kichu as co-researchers, under the supervision of Dr Nurul Alam Choudhury.

Vice Chancellor Prof Jagadish K. Patnaik stated that the development marks a step towards eco-friendly and reliable next-generation energy storage technologies.

The supercapacitor developed using the hydrogel electrolyte demonstrated durability, maintaining stable performance up to 46,000 charge-discharge cycles.

Dr Nurul Alam Choudhury, Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry, stated that the hydrogel electrolyte enabled efficient ion movement and stable energy storage with reliable energy output.

Dipankar Hazarika stated that the technology has reached Technology Readiness Level-3, indicating successful proof-of-concept under laboratory conditions, and added that a start-up initiative based on hydrogel electrolyte materials has emerged from the university.

Nuphizo Shijoh stated that the innovation could contribute to safer and high-performance energy storage systems supporting renewable energy integration and electric mobility.

Marjo A. Kichu stated that the electrolyte demonstrated durability over more than 46,000 charge-discharge cycles, indicating potential for long-lasting energy storage systems.

The next phase of the research will focus on scaling up fabrication, integrating the technology into commercial modules and testing under real-world conditions, while also exploring flexible and wearable energy storage applications.