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Prismatic supercapacitors from SCURTER next to an ant to illustrate the small size of the supercaps.

Maximum Power in Minimal Space: SCHURTER Prismatic Supercapacitors

Supercapacitors store large amounts of energy and release it extremely quickly, making them highly valuable for numerous applications. SCHURTER’s new line of prismatic supercapacitors sets a new benchmark in energy storage solutions. What exactly are supercapacitors, and what distinguishes SCHURTER’s latest generation? Let’s take a closer look.

Posted by Redaktion Elektronik Kompetenz | | 4 min read

What is a Supercapacitor?

A supercapacitor, also known as a supercap or ultracapacitor, is a high-performance energy storage device designed for rapid charging and discharging. Supercaps combine the fast energy delivery of conventional capacitors with the high storage capacity of batteries, making them ideal for demanding applications.

How does a Supercapacitor Work?

Supercapacitors consist of two electrodes separated by an electrolyte. When a voltage is applied, ions in the electrolyte accumulate at the electrode surfaces, forming two charged layers. This phenomenon is known as electric double-layer capacitance (EDLC). This structure enables rapid energy storage and release without degradation caused by chemical reactions.

Supercapacitors vs. Batteries and Accumulators

Compared to batteries and accumulators of the same weight, supercaps have approximately 10% lower energy density. However, their power density is about ten to one hundred times greater. This allows supercaps to charge and discharge much faster. Additionally, they withstand significantly more charge-discharge cycles, making them especially suitable as supplements or replacements for batteries and accumulators in applications with high switching demands.

Power Density vs. Energy Density

Power density indicates how quickly an energy storage device can absorb or deliver energy. It is crucial for applications requiring short bursts of high power, such as motor starting. Supercapacitors impress with their high power density, providing energy almost instantaneously. Energy density reflects how much energy a device can store over a longer period. High energy density is essential for applications needing continuous power supply.

SCHURTER Prismatic Supercapacitors: Ultra-compact yet Powerful

A close-up of the supercap series from SCHURTER.
Source: SCHURTER

In collaboration with CAP-XX, SCHURTER has developed ultra-thin, high-performance supercapacitors, setting a new standard in energy storage. The thinnest supercaps currently available bridge the gap in power and capacity between conventional capacitors and batteries. These prismatic supercapacitors combine high power density with extremely low equivalent series resistance (ESR) and an ultra-flat form factor – ideal for demanding electronic applications.

Available Variants of Prismatic Supercaps

Close-up of the SCPA Supercap from SCHURTER.
Source: SCHURTER

SCPA

The ultrathin design of the SCPA series is perfect for space-constrained applications. With only 0.4 mm thickness, this model is currently the thinnest supercapacitor on the market offering high power. Additional features are:

  • Available in single or dual cell
  • High pulse power
  • High power density
  • Low ESR with high current capability
  • Very low self-discharge

SCPB Supercap

Close-up of the SCPB Supercap from SCHURTER.
Source: SCHURTER

The SCPB supercap is optimized for applications requiring exceptionally long service life. It delivers excellent performance even at low temperatures. Additional features are:

  • Available in single or dual cell
  • High pulse power
  • Outstanding low-temperature performance
  • High power density
  • Low ESR with high current capability
  • Very low self-discharge

SCPC Prismatic Supercap

The SCPC model from SCHURTER offers high-capacity solutions for energy-intensive applications with excellent temperature resistance. Additional features are:

  • Available in single or dual cell
  • High pulse power
  • High rated temperature
  • High power density
  • Low ESR with high current capability
  • Very low self-discharge
This infographic illustrates the diverse advantages of SCHURTER supercaps. The application range of supercapacitors is extremely broad – there is hardly an industry where they cannot or should not be used.
This infographic illustrates the diverse advantages of SCHURTER supercaps. The application range of supercapacitors is extremely broad – there is hardly an industry where they cannot or should not be used. Source: SCHURTER

Why choose SCHURTER Prismatic Supercaps?

Several factors make SCHURTER’s latest product line the preferred choice:

  • The world’s thinnest supercapacitors: The SCPA model is only 0.4 mm thick, making it the thinnest high-performance supercapacitor currently available.
  • High energy density: Designed for rapid energy discharge in demanding, high-load applications.
  • Minimal self-discharge: Ensures long-lasting energy retention and high efficiency.
  • Exceptional lifespan: Significantly outperforms conventional rechargeable batteries in charge-discharge cycles.
  • Wide range of applications

Application Areas for Prismatic Supercapacitors

The image shows a selection of electronic components, mainly capacitors, in the center, representing the products offered by SCHURTER. Surrounding these components are six different application areas, which are connected to the central product group by arrows. These illustrate the versatility and importance of SCHURTER components in various industries.
The application areas for Prismatic Supercaps. Source: SCHURTER

SCHURTER’s prismatic supercaps are engineered for state-of-the-art applications:

  • Wearables & Electronics: Reliable power supply for ultra-thin and lightweight devices.
  • IoT Sensors: Compact and secure backup energy for connected systems.
  • Medical Devices: Stable power for portable and mission-critical equipment.
  • Automotive Systems: Efficient support for energy-intensive functions such as start-stop systems.
  • Energy Harvesting: Sustainable energy generation through effective storage and delivery.
Posted by Redaktion Elektronik Kompetenz, The editorial team of the online magazine Blickpunkt Elektronik Kompetenz always has its finger on the pulse of what's happening in the world of electronics. It follows all developments in detail and regularly takes a look at the latest products, innovative approaches to solutions, trends, and tips and tricks for dealing with electronic components.