IIT Indore develops color-changing energy storing supercapacitor:Device offers energy storage and heat control; useful for EVs, smart buildings and electronics

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore have developed a color-changing supercapacitor that not only stores energy but also visually displays its charging status through color variations, marking a significant advancement in energy storage and smart material technology. The innovation comes from the Materials and Device (MAD) Lab of the Department of Physics, under the leadership of Professor Rajesh Kumar. The device changes color as it charges red when fully charged, green when half charged, and blue when discharged, allowing users to identify its charge level instantly, without separate monitoring circuits. Dual function: energy storage and heat control Unlike conventional supercapacitors, this electrochromic supercapacitor also blocks infrared heat while charging, helping regulate temperature and energy flow. The technology uses a specially designed vanadium oxide complex, which alters its optical properties during charging and discharging. The prototype achieved optical modulation of up to 70% in red and 50% in blue, demonstrating excellent performance and adaptability. It is a solid-state, flexible device that can be bent or twisted without affecting its efficiency. The research team successfully tested a 25 cm² prototype, showing scalability for industrial and commercial applications. Potential for vehicles, buildings, and electronics According to Prof. Rajesh Kumar, Our technology combines energy storage, heat control, and visual feedback in one compact device, offering a smarter, more efficient way to manage energy. It has the potential to transform consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and smart building systems. The innovation could find major applications in automobiles, where energy storage and temperature control are critical, and in smart buildings, where it can filter heat and reduce cooling costs while remaining transparent. Globally, the automotive supercapacitor market, valued at USD 1.3 billion in 2023, is projected to grow to USD 7.5 billion by 2032, indicating strong commercial potential for such technologies. Women scientists at the forefront A remarkable aspect of this project is the strong representation of women researchers, who formed more than half of the core team. The group includes Bhumika Sahu, Dr. Tanushree Ghosh, Nikita, and Dr. Suchita Kandpal, along with Dr. Love Bansal, a Translational Research Fellow (TRF), and Deb Kumar Rath. The TRF scheme at IIT Indore supports young researchers in developing laboratory innovations for real-world applications. Leadership and vision IIT Indore Director Professor Suhas Joshi lauded the achievement, stating, This breakthrough is a proud moment for IIT Indore. It reflects our commitment to technologies that not only serve India’s energy needs but also advance global sustainability. The TRF scheme has been instrumental in nurturing such impactful innovations. As the team moves toward commercialization, the innovation is poised to make energy storage more efficient, sustainable, and user-friendly, contributing to the global transition toward renewable and green energy solutions.