info@musicproject.eu 
"The electrolyte of sodium ion capacitors must be highly recyclable"
Andrea Balducci´s insights shed light on the profound significance of electrolytes within the framework of the MUSIC Project, where pioneering efforts are underway to redefine the landscape of energy storage technologies.
In the dynamic realm of energy storage solutions, the role of electrolytes in Sodium-ion Capacitors (SICs) stands as a pivotal focus for innovation and sustainability. We had the privilege to delve into this realm with Andrea Balducci, a distinguished Professor for applied electrochemistry at the Institute for Technical Chemistry and Environmental Chemistry of the Friedrich-Schiller University Jena. His insights shed light on the profound significance of electrolytes within the framework of the MUSIC Project, where pioneering efforts are underway to redefine the landscape of energy storage technologies.
What is the major role of the electrolyte in a SIC?
The electrolyte is a key component of the SIC, responsible for the transport of sodium ions and the formation/depletion of the electrical double layer during the charge-discharge process of these devices. The electrolyte has a huge impact on the interfacial processes occurring on SICs. Furthermore, its composition and chemical/physical properties strongly influence the SICs´ cell voltage, safety and operating temperature of these devices.
Which are the design principles for a electrolyte to be sustainable?
To develop sustainable electrolytes, several aspects must be carefully considered. Firstly, it is necessary to use solvents and salts that are widely available and can be made from sustainable sources. These components must enable the production of high-performance devices and, at the same time, have low toxicity and low flammability. Finally, the electrolyte must be highly recyclable.
As the curtains draw on our conversation with Andrea Balducci, it´s evident that the journey towards sustainable energy storage solutions is multifaceted and demanding. Yet, through collaborative endeavors like the MUSIC Project, anchored by the expertise of scholars like Professor Balducci, we navigate towards a future where innovation harmonizes with sustainability. With electrolytes at the heart of this endeavor, the path to unlocking the full potential of Sodium-ion Capacitors becomes clearer, promising a greener and more resilient energy landscape for generations to come.