Recent Breakthroughs in Supercapacitors Boosted by Macrocycles

Abstract

Supercapacitors are essential for electrochemical energy storage because of their high‐power density, good cycle stability, fast charging and discharging rates, and low maintenance cost. Macrocycles, including cucurbiturils, calixarene, and cyclodextrins, are cage‐like organic compounds (with a nanocavity that contains O and N heteroatoms) with unique potential in supercapacitors. Here, we review the applications of macrocycles in supercapacitor systems, and we illustrate the merits of organic macrocycles in electrodes and electrolytes for improving the electrochemical double‐layer capacitors and pseudocapacitance via supramolecular strategies. Then, the observed relationships between electrochemical performance and macrocyclic structures are introduced. This comprehensive review describes recent progress on macrocycle‐block supercapacitors for researchers.

Electrochemical switching in mechanically interlocked molecules (MIMs)

“…41,42 For instance, ion transport kinetics, 43,44 energy density, 45,46 and cycle life can all be enhanced by functionalizing electrode surfaces with supramolecular host-guest systems. 47 Overall, integrating supramolecular chemistry with electrochemistry has opened up exciting avenues for designing and viologen-based supramolecular chemistry, along with the investigation of their applications towards photophysical applications, electro-organic synthesis, electrochemical CO 2 reduction and conversion to useful organics, metalorganic frameworks, and porous organic polymers for sensing and energy-related applications.…”

“…41,42 For instance, ion transport kinetics, 43,44 energy density, 45,46 and cycle life can all be enhanced by functionalizing electrode surfaces with supramolecular host–guest systems. 47…”