Atomic layer deposition at Tampere University: boosting supercapacitor performance

At Tampere University (TAU), cutting-edge nanotechnology is at the heart of our contribution to the ARMS project. Using Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD), we decorate supercapacitor electrodes at the nanometer scale. This precise technique enhances the energy density of the final supercapacitor, pushing the boundaries of energy storage technology.

Recently, our team captured a moment in the lab featuring Hamed (a post-doctoral researcher) and Remuel (a doctoral researcher) working with the glove box. A glove box is a sealed container designed to allow researchers to handle sensitive materials in a controlled atmosphere, free from contaminants like moisture or oxygen. Inside this glove box, the ALD chamber is located, providing a controlled environment for the deposition process. In the photo, Hamed and Remuel are carefully placing the electrodes into the ALD chamber, ensuring the highest level of precision for the nanometer-scale electrode decoration.

The dedication and teamwork behind this innovative research highlight TAU’s vital role in advancing the ARMS project. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue exploring new frontiers in energy storage with flexible and structural supercapacitors!

Powering tomorrow: the role of supercapacitors in green energy solutions

In a recent interview on the Latvian National Radio program (LR1) "Zināmais nezināmajā" (Known in the Unknown), project ARMS WP1 leader and the head of the Energy Materials Laboratory (Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia), Gints Kučinskis, together with his colleague, Gunārs Bajārs, focused on the challenges associated with lithium batteries, while also addressing the potential of supercapacitors.

With increasing environmental concerns over lithium extraction, which is characterized by excessive water consumption and soil degradation, the need for sustainable energy solutions is not just a future goal, but an urgent necessity. As the demand for lithium faces supply limitations, researchers are actively exploring alternatives like supercapacitors and sodium-ion technology.

Gunārs Bajārs underscored the critical need for diversifying energy sources, particularly in light of the limited lithium availability in Europe and the geopolitical factors impacting supply. His statement, "It’s not that we will need another element tomorrow, but we have to think about it," serves as a reminder of the necessity to explore and invest in alternative energy solutions.

The researchers also discussed advancements in supercapacitors developed in the ARMS project, focusing on using graphene to enhance energy density and sustainability and aiming for high performance while minimizing environmental impact. Such supercapacitors can provide rapid charge and discharge capabilities, making them suitable for renewable energy systems, electric vehicles, and portable electronics applications.

As discussions on the implications of lithium dependency continue, the focus on supercapacitors and sodium-ion technology reflects a commitment to finding sustainable and stable energy alternatives.

"Zināmais nezināmajā" is a popular science radio magazine that delves into various scientific fields, including nature, ecology, and history, while highlighting significant scientific achievements and the contributions of notable researchers, particularly focusing on the accomplishments of Latvian scientists both locally and globally.

First publication from the ARMS project: sustainable wood carbon for next-generation energy storage

SEM images of AWC samples

The ARMS project's first scientific publication, “Enhancing Specific Capacitance and Energy Density in Printed Supercapacitors: The Role of Activated Wood Carbon and Electrolyte Dynamics,” was published in the open-access journal Carbon Trends. The publication explores the potential of Activated Wood Carbon (AWC) – a sustainable and innovative material – for use in printed supercapacitors. The team of researchers from Tampere University (Finland), the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry (Latvia), InnoCell ApS (Denmark), and the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (Latvia) investigated the impact of AWC's unique structural properties on the performance of these energy storage devices. They also examined how different electrolytes influence the overall energy storage capabilities.

The study involved comprehensive analysis using techniques such as sorptometry, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and electrochemical assessments. These analyses provided crucial insights into the relationship between AWC's structure and its electrochemical behavior. The researchers compared the performance of supercapacitors using AWC to those using a commercially available benchmark material.

Remarkably, the results demonstrated a significant enhancement in both specific capacitance and energy density when using AWC. In fact, the supercapacitors using AWC showed improvements of up to 93% in specific capacitance and 90% in energy density compared to the benchmark material at specific operating voltages. This significant performance improvement is attributed to AWC's superior surface area and porous structure, which offers abundant sites for ion storage and facilitates efficient ion transport.

Furthermore, the choice of electrolyte played a critical role in determining the overall performance. The study compared two different aqueous electrolytes—demonstrating that the K_xH_yPO₄ electrolyte yielded superior results compared to NaCl. This difference underscores the importance of carefully selecting electrolytes to optimize the performance of supercapacitors.

This research showcases the promise of AWC as a sustainable and high-performing electrode material for printed supercapacitors. The findings represent a significant step towards developing environmentally friendly and efficient energy storage solutions for a more sustainable future.

Read the full paper here.

Graphical abstract of the publication

Supercapacitor fabrication steps

Advancing sustainable innovation: the University of Southern Denmark's role in the ARMS project

The University of Southern Denmark (SDU) is a relatively young and fast-growing Danish university (started in 1966). It consists of five faculties that educate just under 30,000 students, and five campuses, the largest of which is in Odense, on the island of Funen. The Faculty of Engineering, affiliated with ARMS, has gained a reputation for cutting-edge research, especially in robotics, and has generated many startups.

The team at SDU involved in the ARMS project consists of Associate Professor Ciprian Cimpan and Postdoctoral Fellow Suiting Ding. The two are part of SDU Life Cycle Engineering, a research section focusing on advancing sustainable solutions through life cycle thinking. The research group specializes in life cycle assessment (LCA), environmental management, and eco-design. They work on evaluating environmental impacts across the entire lifecycle of products, systems, and processes, contributing to sustainable innovation in industries such as energy, materials, and waste management.

Showcasing project ARMS at the International Research Funding Days

On December 5th, the project coordinator’s team at Tampere University had the exciting opportunity to present the EU-funded ARMS project at the "International Research Funding Days" organized by Tampere University (TAU). The event gathered all TAU-coordinated projects for a Poster Session, creating an environment rich with insights, knowledge sharing, and networking opportunities.

The event showcased innovative research conducted across various disciplines. Connecting with other Horizon Europe projects and exchanging ideas with fellow researchers was particularly inspiring. This exchange broadened our perspective and sparked new ideas for future research directions.

In addition to presenting the ARMS project, the team consisting of Matti Mäntysalo (project coordinator) and Hamed Pourkheirollah (post-doc researcher and ARMS technical manager) took the valuable opportunity to strengthen collaboration with the TAU pre-award team. Their support and insights have been instrumental in advancing ARMS goals. Engaging with them at the event helped solidify our ongoing partnership and explore new avenues for collaboration.

With over 100 attendees, the event was a resounding success, serving as a wonderful platform for expanding networks and highlighting the cutting-edge research within the Tampere University community. The diverse presentations underscored the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in driving innovation and addressing complex global challenges.

Looking ahead, we are eager to participate in more such opportunities that enable us to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the future of research. The event reaffirmed our commitment to fostering a collaborative research environment that thrives on shared knowledge and mutual support.

Project ARMS extends its heartfelt thanks to Tampere University for organizing this event and all participants for making it a memorable experience. We are excited to continue building on these connections and exploring new possibilities for the ARMS project.

ARMS consortium partners gather for the Consortium Meeting in Riga

On November 5-6, all consortium partners and members of the External Advisory Board convened for the 3rd Consortium Meeting at the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia. This event marked a significant milestone in the ARMS project, bringing together experts dedicated to advancing energy storage technologies.

The ARMS project aims to develop and integrate advanced materials and processes for producing eco-friendly supercapacitors. By enhancing the performance and sustainability of energy storage devices, the project seeks to contribute to breakthroughs in materials engineering and innovative energy solutions. These objectives are essential in addressing global energy challenges and promoting environmentally friendly technologies.

To facilitate our work, the project is organized into eight comprehensive work packages, each led by dedicated partners from the ARMS consortium:

• WP 1 Synthesis of Raw Graphene-Containing Carbon-Based Electrode Materials (led by the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia) focuses on developing new materials that can improve the efficiency of supercapacitors.
• WP 2 Electrode Fabrication (KTH) – working on creating electrodes that maximize performance and longevity.
• WP 3 Electrode Booster (ALD) – explores advanced techniques to enhance electrode properties (Tampere University). 
• WP 4 Electrolytes (led by InnoCell) – working on formulating electrolytes that complement the new materials and improve overall device performance.
• WP 5 Supercapacitor Device Integration and Demonstration (CIDETEC) focuses on integrating the various components into functional supercapacitor devices and demonstrating their capabilities.
• WP 6 Sustainability Assessment (led by the University of Southern Denmark) evaluates the environmental impact of the materials and processes developed throughout the project.
• WP 7 Dissemination, Exploitation, and Communication (Beneq) – effectively communicates the findings and progress of the project and ensures that results reach relevant stakeholders and the public.
• WP8 Project Management and Coordination (Tampere University) oversees the overall organization and coordination of project activities to ensure smooth progress.

During the Riga meeting, partners had the opportunity to present their progress and findings from the project's first year. The discussions surrounding the results of the initial four work packages were particularly engaging as participants evaluated their achievements and strategized for future collaborations on technical and research tasks. Insights and feedback from the External Advisory Board members, Dr. Martin Krebbs (founder of PrintaBattery and member of the Organic and Printed Electronics Association) and Dr. Jakob Heier (the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa)), provided valuable perspectives that will guide our next steps.

At the end of the first day, project partners enjoyed a guided tour of the Institute of Solid State Physics laboratories. This visit allowed the ARMS consortium members to witness firsthand the state-of-the-art equipment and research facilities available at ISSP UL, enhancing their understanding of the resources utilized in WP1 research.

Following a busy and productive first day, all eleven consortium partners gathered for a convivial dinner, where discussions about the project’s research and development continued in a more informal setting. This gathering fostered collaboration and strengthened the relationships among team members.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to ISSP UL and the city of Riga for their warm hospitality during our stay. We look forward to continuing our work together and gathering again next year in Denmark, where we will further our mission to innovate in eco-friendly energy storage solutions!

ARMS project: Introducing AIMEN’s capabilities, role in the project, and research team

AIMEN Technology Centre, with more than 57 years of history, is currently a national and European benchmark in research, development, and technological innovation in the areas of advanced manufacturing and laser manufacturing, digital technologies for manufacturing, smart materials, smart systems, and recycling; as well as in the provision of differentiating technological services to the industry in the areas of manufacturing with advanced joining technologies, robotics and process digitization, a flexible cross-engineering service highly specialized in welding, corrosion, equipment calculation, product simulation and material tests. AIMEN conducts R&D&I activities and offers technological services for various sectors, including mobility, construction, aerospace, energy, and chemistry, among others. Currently, AIMEN manages 78 EU R&D projects, 20 of which it coordinates.

As part of the ARMS project, AIMEN is concentrating on the desizing and activation of carbon fibre for graphene coating to maximize the capacitance of electrodes. Additionally, the project involves studying the rheology of an electrolyte system compatible with epoxy resin and developing structural supercapacitors through vacuum resin infusion, which will be incorporated into a drone. Furthermore, AIMEN will conduct electrochemical analyses to determine the energy density and power density of the developed structural supercapacitors while also evaluating their mechanical properties.

To date, AIMEN leads task 2.2, in which it collaborates with KTH and Chalmers University, which is responsible for the graphene coating. AIMEN provides the desired carbon fibre and conducts the electrochemical characterization of the coated graphene carbon fibre electrodes (WP2). Additionally, cooperation with Innocell has focused on optimising an electrolyte system for structural supercapacitors (WP4). The rheology tests will provide valuable information for finding a suitable resin/electrolyte system, as well as key parameters of the curing process (curing temperature and time), which will serve as inputs for WP5, focused on the development of structural composite laminates/supercapacitors.

The team at AIMEN involved in the ARMS project consists of four members: Cintia Mateo Mateo, Ignacio Ezpeleta Vázquez-Redonet, Marisol Rivas Caramés, and Lourdes Blanco Salgado.

AIMEN's expertise includes electrochemistry (Potentiostats/Galvanostats, software analysis, and general electrochemical instrumentation), analysis techniques (DSC, TGA, SEM, SEM-EDS), rheology, and mechanical testing (tensile, compression, bending, and fatigue tests), as well as electrical characterization. Additionally, AIMEN has competencies in the development of out-of-autoclave composites, including vacuum infusion setups, degassing systems, ovens, molds, and more.

ARMS Project at Graphene Week 2024

The 19th edition of Europe’s leading Graphene and 2D materials conference, “Graphene Week 2024,” took place in Prague, the Czech Republic, October 14 – 18, 2024. This annual event gathered graphene experts and Graphene Flagship associated projects. Our project was represented by its technical project manager and post-doc researcher, Hamed Pourkheirollah from Tampere University and Associate Professor Jinhua Sun from Chalmers University.

Throughout Graphene Week 2024, Dr. Pourkheirollah participated in various Graphene Flagship meetings, including road mapping, coordination board discussions, the project managers meeting, and the annual general meeting. These sessions offered an excellent platform to discuss ARMS’ contributions and align with Flagship's strategic goals.

The ARMS project was well-represented with its pod in the Graphene Flagship Hall, where Hamed and Jinhua introduced the ARMS project to the people who were eager to know more about the research performed within our consortium. Discussions with researchers and Graphene Flagship sibling project representatives fostered valuable connections and explored potential collaborations.

On October 16, both Hamed and Jinhua gave their talks at the workshop “Integrating Graphene Innovations: From Smart Textiles to High-Performance Energy Storage,” which was co-hosted with the Graphene Flagship sibling project, GRAPHERGIA. In the workshop, project ARMS representatives provided insights into ARMS’ technical advancements. The workshop also initiated several interesting discussions with international researchers.

Dr. Hamed Pourkheirollah also participated in the Graphene Week 2024 poster session, where he showcased a technical poster detailing ARMS’ recent innovation, sparking interest and conversation among attendees. Furthermore, the Graphene Flagship arranged a professional video interview for ARMS, where Hamed discussed the project’s objectives, recent developments, and future aspirations.

Whereas Jinhua Sun had the valuable opportunity to explore the cutting-edge 2D materials research labs at the University of Chemistry and Technology in Prague, gaining insight into the innovative work being conducted in this rapidly evolving field.

The Graphene Flagship 2024 proved to be an enriching experience, allowing Hamed and Jinhua to exchange knowledge with experts across various fields, discuss ARMS’ breakthroughs, connect with peers from other flagship-associated projects, and build their network. The event was a significant opportunity for the ARMS project to highlight its advancements on a global stage.

Environmentally friendly supercapacitors with an aqueous hybrid electrolyte developed by Danish company InnoCell

InnoCell specializes in the development and manufacture of new types of supercapacitors. One of the company’s primary objectives is to create supercapacitors that are as sustainable, safe, and environmentally friendly as possible.

The ARMS project plays a significant role in achieving these goals by fostering collaboration among many of Europe’s leading experts in relevant fields, providing InnoCell with a unique opportunity to improve its core technologies.

Within the project, InnoCell is developing its bio-curved graphene electrode material alongside other high-performance bio-based electrode materials. These materials undergo further enhancement through Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) treatment to improve capacitance and electrochemical stability. In addition to electrode material development, the interaction between the electrolyte and electrode is studied, leading to the optimization of electrolytes based on InnoCell’s patented aqueous hybrid electrolyte technology.

The final materials are demonstrated in both traditional supercapacitors with pouch cell encapsulation and novel approaches such as flexible and structural supercapacitors.

ARMS unlocking innovation at GRAPHENE WEEK 2024 – Europe’s leading conference on graphene and 2D materials

The 19th edition of Europe’s leading Graphene and 2D materials conference, “Graphene Week 2024,” will take place in the Cubex Center in Prague, the Czech Republic, October 14 – 18, 2024. Project ARMS will participate in this important event, standing at the forefront of cutting-edge research, innovation, diversity, and technology. Our project representatives will not just co-host a workshop with our colleagues from the GRAPHERGIA project, but they will also present project ARMS at the Graphene Flagship Hall with our sibling projects.

The highlight of our participation at the Graphene Week 2024 is Workshop #2, “Integrating Graphene Innovations: From Smart Textiles to High-Performance Energy Storage,” co-hosted with our sibling project GRAPHERGIA. The workshop will be held on Wednesday, October 16, from 11:15 to 13:15, where our technical project manager and post-doc researcher, Dr. Hamed Pourkheirollah (Tampere University), and Associate Professor Jinhua Sun (Chalmers University of Technology) will talk about graphene functionalization and energy-related, namely, supercapacitor, applications.

In the workshop, participants will discover how graphene revolutionizes industries, exploring innovative graphene production methods and its diverse applications, including smart textiles and advanced energy storage solutions.

Project ARMS will also be presented in the Graphene Flagship Hall, highlighting the initiative and its 14 projects. The Graphene Flagship booth will greet visitors as they come up the stairs into the venue and will highlight the full initiative and how it works. As the visitors proceed toward the auditoriums, they will walk by individual project pods where you will find project ARMS, represented either by our technical project manager, Dr. Hamed Pourkheirollah, or Associate Professor Jinhua Sun.

You will find project ARMS there at the following times:

• Monday, October 14: 15:45 -16:15
• Tuesday, October 15: 10:45 - 11:15, 13:15 - 14:15, 16:15 - 16:45
• Wednesday, October 16: 10:45 - 11:15, 13:15 - 14:15, 16:15 - 16:45
• Thursday, October 17: 10:45 - 11:15, 13:15 - 14:15, 16:15 - 16:45

More about the Graphene Week 2024

Supported by the European Commission, Graphene Week 2024 stands at the forefront of cutting-edge research, innovation, and technology. As Europe’s leading and longest-running graphene conference, it unites over 500 international experts and students to discuss key topics concerning graphene and 2D materials. In 2024, the program welcomes over 200 speakers, an Innovation Forum, an Exhibition, and dedicated sessions on diversity, early career development, EC future opportunities, and 2D materials for the future. Join us for the 19th edition of Graphene Week 2024 in Prague, and let’s turn wonder into action!

Innovating energy storage: graphene-enhanced micro-flexible and structural supercapacitor electrodes at KTH Royal Institute of Technology

The Printed Electronics group at KTH has extensive experience in developing eco-friendly conductive inks using carbon-based materials, particularly graphene and other 2D materials. These inks are tailored for various manufacturing processes, such as inkjet printing, 3D printing, airbrush spraying, and supersonic spraying, and serve a range of industrial applications, including supercapacitors, thermally conductive coatings for electronics cooling, and conductive wear-resistant coatings for electrification. KTH is also exploring innovative self-charging energy systems that combine energy harvesters (triboelectric nanogenerators) with energy storage devices (microsupercapacitors) to capture and store energy from the environment.

In ARMS, KTH leads Work Package 2 (WP2), focusing on the fabrication of graphene-enabled binder-free electrodes for micro-flexible and structural supercapacitors. The primary responsibility under WP2 is the development of supercapacitor electrodes compatible with atomic layer deposition (ALD) processes in WP3. KTH has been using the bio-derived activated carbon materials and graphene supplied by other partners to formulate proper inks and fabricate graphene-enhanced binder-free carbon electrodes on both flexible substrates and carbon fibres.

The ARMS project team at KTH is led by Assoc. Prof. Jiantong Li, mainly with the support of Dr. Yingchun Su and PhD student Yujie Fu. Currently, we have developed processes to fabricate binder-free carbon electrodes on flexible (Kapton) substrates and carbon fibers with thermal stability higher than 300 ^oC. The good thermal stability will provide more flexibility for WP3 in selecting compatible materials for the ALD processes. Based on the feedback from partners, we are developing appropriate processes to improve the adhesion property of the binder-free electrodes.

Advancing energy storage: the role of the ISSP UL in the ARMS project

The Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL) is an internationally recognized leader in materials science, specializing in solid-state physics, materials science, and nanotechnology. The ISSP UL fosters interdisciplinary collaboration among physicists, chemists, and engineers, all while being equipped with state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities that drive innovative research and the development of new materials. Moreover, ISSP UL is committed to educating future scientists and facilitating partnerships with industry, thereby advancing technology and knowledge in solid-state physics at both local and international levels.

Central to implementing the ARMS project at ISSP UL is the Energy Materials Laboratory, which focuses on advancing knowledge and technologies in lithium and sodium batteries, as well as supercapacitors. This work addresses pressing issues related to climate neutrality, energy provision, and sustainable solutions.

ISSP UL leads Work Package 1 (WP1), which is dedicated to synthesizing raw graphene-containing carbon-based electrode materials. In addition to research endeavors, the institute oversees communication and dissemination activities under WP7, ensuring that project developments are effectively shared.

The dedicated team at ISSP UL working on the ARMS project consists of five members. Under the leadership of Dr. Gints Kučinskis, the Energy Materials Laboratory drives the scientific tasks within WP1. The team includes researcher and Ph.D. student Dāvis Kalniņš, research assistant Roberts Palmbahs, and structural characterization expert Dr. Līga Grīnberga. Inese Jansone, a specialist in scientific communication from the ISSP UL Development Department, manages ARMS project communication and dissemination efforts.

ISSP UL’s expertise encompasses the electrochemical and structural characterization of supercapacitor materials, supported by advanced resources such as an electrochemistry lab with over 75 test channels and equipment for ALD, SEM, XRD, XPS, TEM, and Raman spectroscopy. The research within the ARMS project is focused on developing graphene-containing carbon-based electrode materials for efficient supercapacitors. The ISSP UL’s team is committed to creating innovative carbon materials that will be further transformed into high-performance electrodes, ultimately integrated into the ARMS supercapacitor.

Collaboration with INNOCELL and the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry allows ISSP UL’s team to analyze the structure and electrochemical properties of electrode materials in partnership with researchers from Tampere University. WP1 actively analyzes samples and holds meetings with other ARMS partners every three weeks to discuss project progress. WP1 activity within the project spans three years. Currently, almost one-third of the tasks are complete.

To date, we have successfully developed synthesis techniques in collaboration with our partners and established the materials needed for the project. WP1’s goal, along with our colleagues', is to optimize and improve the materials further, aiming to produce them in larger quantities by the third year.

Project ARMS co-hosted a workshop empowering innovation at the IEEE FLEPS 2024 Conference in Tampere

On June 30, project ARMS co-hosted a workshop exploring energy-autonomous wearable electronics at the IEEE FLEPS 2024 International Conference on Flexible and Printable Sensors and Systems in Tampere, Finland. The workshop, held alongside three other EU-funded projects, was a part of the larger gathering that brought together experts and enthusiasts in the field of flexible and printable sensors and systems.

The workshop theme centered around the cutting-edge realm of energy-autonomous self-powered wearable electronic devices, spotlighting the dynamic interplay between energy harvesting systems and transformative energy storage solutions, specifically batteries and supercapacitors.

The workshop was inspired by four EU-funded projects—SUPERIOT, SOLiD, GRAPHERGIA, and ARMS—and aimed to provide a comprehensive exploration of sustainable technologies. During the event, six exceptional speakers representing the projects shared their expertise:

• Sam Mousavi presented the captivating SOLiD Project that delves into enhanced energy density batteries via the R2R process and advanced cathode materials, solid polymer electrolytes, and conducting additives. , added depth to our workshop's focus on energy storage innovation while
• Spyros Yannopoulos and Dorela Hoxha provided insights on the GRAPHERGIA project, which aims to develop an innovative method for utilizing graphene-based materials and nanohybrids in energy harvesting and storage devices, particularly in smart textiles and next-generation Li-ion batteries through laser-assisted graphene production.
• Marja Välimäki and Marcos Katz introduced the innovative SUPERIOT project, with its dual-mode optical and radio communications and utilization of printed electronics, sets the stage for a truly adaptable Internet of Things (IoT) system
• Jari Keskinen delved into the intricacies of project ARMS, which aims to amplify supercapacitor energy density through novel materials and fabrication techniques like ALD.

The workshop emphasized the integration of energy storage systems with energy harvesting solutions, particularly showcasing the relevance of the Graphene flagship to the GRAPHERGIA and ARMS projects, which leverage 2D materials in battery and supercapacitor development. By bringing together experts and enthusiasts in the field, the workshop fostered collaborative discussions and explored the future of wearable electronics, highlighting the vital role of sustainable energy solutions.

The workshop was a success, thanks to the insightful contributions of the presenters and the enthusiastic participation of the audience. Twenty-five individuals were present, engaging in thought-provoking discussions and collaborative exchanges that showcased the latest innovations in energy storage, harvesting, and energy-autonomous wearable electronics. Attendees praised the in-depth presentations and interactive sessions, with many highlighting the workshop's innovative approaches as particularly enlightening.

The positive feedback from participants emphasized the workshop's impact in fostering a vibrant exchange of ideas and driving progress in energy technology. The workshop's success is a testament to the power of collaboration and shared knowledge in advancing innovation.

Innovative synthesis of graphene-carbon electrode materials from wood waste at the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry

Photo: 1) Aleksandrs Volperts, 2) Ance Pļavniece, 3) Carbon

Research at the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry (LSIWC) covers practically all fields related to wood and lignocellulosic biomass utilization. It is based on interdisciplinary theoretical studies of wood and lignocellulosic materials at the molecular and nano levels.

In the ARMS project, LSIWC is primarily and extensively involved in WP1 - Synthesis of raw graphene-containing carbon-based electrode materials. Our main task in this project is synthesising composite graphene-carbon electrode materials from wood and its waste. In a nutshell, we are synthesizing and modifying activated carbons from lignocellulosic biomass to provide materials for designing and fabricating electrochemical devices. We have extensive expertise in this area, as evidenced by numerous publications and achievements. However, producing high-quality activated carbon is always a challenge, not only due to the variety of synthesis parameters but especially when it comes to scaling up the process.

Our team for the ARMS project is led by Dr.sc. ing. Aivars Zhurinsh, with Dr. sc. ing. Aleksandrs Volperts, Ph.D. Ance Plavniece, Dr. habil. chem. Galina Dobele, and several technicians and students who provide invaluable help and support.

Currently, we have supplied a number of activated samples to our partners in other work packages and are beginning to develop pathways for further scaling up our synthesis, as this is one of the goals of the ARMS project. Recently, we were able to process and purify up to 300g of our "black gold," highly activated carbon, in one batch using a 20L heated glass reactor. This is just the beginning, as we are also in the process of constructing a specialized tunnel oven for activation, which will allow us to scale up the process further. The sky is the limit!

Advancing energy storage technology: the ARMS project at Tampere University's Laboratory for Future Electronics

We, the members of Tampere University (TAU), specifically the Laboratory for Future Electronics (LFE), serve as the coordinating entity for the ARMS project. We not only take charge of the management and coordination work package (WP8) but also lead WP3, which focuses on electrode enhancement through the utilization of the Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) technique. In addition to Matti, the coordinator, our TAU team for ARMS includes Paul, the WP3 leader; Hamed, the technical project manager and post-doctoral researcher; Hanna, the administrative project manager; and Jari, a staff scientist. Joining our TAU team for ARMS in January this year is Remuel, whose doctoral research revolves around enhancing supercapacitor (SC) performance through tailored graphene-based electrodes adorned with metal oxides using ALD.

Remuel's doctoral thesis focuses on improving SC performance by applying ultra-thin layers through ALD onto graphene-rich electrodes. This method facilitates the modification of graphene-rich activated carbon electrodes by applying nanoscale ultrathin coatings of metal oxides, thereby altering the electrodes' properties to enable higher energy storage capacity. Our objective at LFE is to elevate the energy density to exceed 50 Wh/kg, striving to approach the energy storage capability of conventional lithium-ion batteries relative to weight. This effort is a crucial element of the ARMS project, driving us toward groundbreaking advancements in energy storage technology.

Presently, within LFE at TAU, our team members are engaged in coating metal oxides onto SC electrodes using various precursors. Furthermore, we plan to enhance the ALD equipment by incorporating additional precursors to facilitate coating other metal oxides in the foreseeable future.

ARMS consortium partners convene online for the General Meeting

In an online setting, the partners of the ARMS consortium convened for a general meeting on April 19th. This meeting brought together all 11 consortium partners, with leaders of the work packages (WP) providing updates on the project's progress.

During the meeting, significant advancements were reported. WP1 focused on synthesizing raw graphene-containing carbon-based electrode materials, while WP2 and WP4 began developing electrodes for micro-flexible supercapacitors and electrolytes, respectively. Additionally, the development of electrode boosters in WP3 had recently started. As per the project implementation plan, some WPs will initiate their work on developing our eco-friendly supercapacitor later in the project lifecycle. Representatives from these WPs shared insights on the achieved results and planned future activities, with participants actively engaging in discussions after each presentation.

Looking forward, the next ARMS general meeting is scheduled as an in-person event on November 5-6 in Riga, Latvia. This gathering will be hosted by the Institute of Solid State Physics at the University of Latvia and the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry.

Highlights from the 41st Annual International Battery Seminar and Exhibition

In sunny Orlando, Florida, the 41st Annual International Battery Seminar & Exhibition served as a platform to showcase the latest updates and advancements in energy storage technology. From March 12^th to March 15^th, experts from around the world gathered to exchange insights and innovations shaping the future of batteries across various applications. The event provided a comprehensive overview of the industry's landscape with four distinct scientific programs—R&D, Manufacturing, Applications, and Engineering—featuring over 280 speakers."

Among the notable presentations was one delivered by Ph.D. Andrew Cook from Beneq, a key partner in the ARMS consortium. Dr. Cook's talk, titled 'Roll-to-Roll ALD Coatings for Battery Cell Interfaces,' was part of the Manufacturing program's section on 'Advances in Cell Manufacturing.' Through his presentation, Dr. Cook elucidated the crucial role of advanced coatings in enhancing battery performance, offering valuable insights into the ongoing efforts to improve energy storage solutions.

Dr. Cook joined Beneq in 2021 as a Process Development Engineer and has been investigating how ALD coatings and processes can be used to modify interface surfaces, which has been shown to improve battery performance. His expertise lies in scaling up ALD to roll-to-roll (R2R) and battery technologies for manufacturing readiness.

Beneq stands as a key partner within the ARMS consortium, playing an important role in transferring ALD technology from the laboratory-scale to large-volume manufacturing. Leveraging its expertise in sheet-to-sheet, roll-to-roll, and spatial ALD processing, Beneq leads the charge in integrating these state-of-the-art coating technologies into its large-volume manufacturing tools. Through this collaboration, ARMS takes a significant step towards scaling up ALD coatings and fostering the development of eco-friendly supercapacitors.

The International Battery Seminar & Exhibit, established in 1983, has been a key platform for announcing significant developments in battery technology. For example, Sony unveiled its lithium-ion technology at the event in 1991, marking a milestone in battery innovation.

As the 41st Annual International Battery Seminar and Exhibition concluded, participants left with an enriched comprehension of the current trends and technological advancements propelling the battery industry. Dr. Cook's presentation highlighted the collaborative endeavors focused on improving energy storage solutions to facilitate a more electrified future.

More information about the event

Workshop announcement: exploring energy-autonomous wearable electronics at IEEE FLEPS Conference

Project ARMS will co-host a workshop alongside three other EU-funded projects during the IEEE FLEPS 2024 (IEEE International Conference on Flexible and Printable Sensors and Systems) conference in Tampere, Finland, from June 30th to July 3rd. Collaborating with “GRAPHERGIA”, "SOLiD" and "SUPERIOT", the workshop will delve into the forefront of energy-autonomous self-powered wearable electronic devices, focusing on the dynamic interaction between energy harvesting systems and transformative energy storage solutions, specifically batteries and supercapacitors.

Inspired by four EU-funded endeavors – ‘GRAPHERGIA’, 'SUPERIOT', 'SOLiD', and 'ARMS' - the workshop offers a comprehensive examination of sustainable technologies. ‘GRAPHERGIA’ innovates graphene-based materials use in energy storage tech, like smart textiles and Li-ion batteries, via laser-made graphene. 'SUPERIOT' introduces a versatile Internet of Things (IoT) system with dual-mode optical and radio communications, utilizing printed electronics. 'SOLiD' contributes to the discourse by exploring enhanced energy density batteries through the R2R process and advanced cathode materials, solid polymer electrolytes, and conducting additives. Meanwhile, 'ARMS' focuses on enhancing supercapacitor energy density through innovative materials and fabrication techniques such as ALD, adding depth to the discussion.

The workshop will stress the integration of energy storage systems with energy harvesting solutions, particularly highlighting the relevance of the Graphene flagship to the ‘GRAPHERGIA’ and 'ARMS' projects, which employ 2D materials in supercapacitor and battery development. By convening experts and enthusiasts in the field, the workshop aims to cultivate collaborative discussion and envision the future of wearable electronics, emphasizing the critical role of sustainable energy solutions.

During our collaborative workshop, we will feature six speakers representing four EU-funded projects. Below is the lineup of our speakers:

1. EU Project ‘SUPERIOT’, Marcos Katz, Project Coordinator, Professor at University of Oulu, Finland.
2. EU Project ‘SUPERIOT’, Marja Välimäki, Senior Scientist at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland.
3. EU Project ‘SOLiD’, Sam Mousavi, Research Scientist at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland.
4. EU Project ‘GRAPHERGIA’ (Associated with Graphene Flagship), Spyros Yannopoulos, Project Coordinator and Professor at the University of Patras, Greece.
5. EU Project ‘GRAPHERGIA’ (Associated with Graphene Flagship), Dorela Hoxha, Materials and Process Engineer Expert, PLEIONE ENERGY GmbH or Antonios Vavouliotis, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), PLEIONE ENERGY GmbH.
6. EU Project ‘ARMS’ (Associated with Graphene Flagship), Jari Keskinen, Staff Scientist at Tampere University, Finland.

Project ARMS researchers engage in collaborative exchange at the Graphene Flagship Common Kick-Off Meeting and Science and Technology Forum

Five researchers from the ARMS project joined the Graphene Flagship Common Kick-off Meeting and Science and Technology Forum, organised on 5-6 February 2024 by the Graphene Flagship Coordination and Support Action project and hosted by Chalmers University of Technology, in Gothenburg, Sweden.

The Kick-Off gathering held on February 5th convened collaborators from 13 EU-funded initiatives linked to the Graphene Flagship. During the meeting, the ARMS project had the opportunity for face-to-face interactions with the other 12 RIAs/IAs participating in this collaboration, including GATEPOST, Next-2Digits, 2NEURALVISION, GRAPHERGIA, MUNASET, 2D-BioPAD, GIANCE, 2D-PRINTABLE, 2D ENGINE, 2D-SPINTECH, 2D-EPL, and SAFARI. Each project delivered insights into their objectives and upcoming initiatives. Additionally, the event featured concurrent sessions, including the Project Managers Working Group, the Innovation Working Groups, and Coordination Board Meetings. The objective of the meeting was to strengthen connections and collaboration among the RIAs/IAs as they collectively strive to transition graphene technologies from labs to markets.

The event marked the official start of the cooperation between the 13 RIAs/IAs, addressing the goals that these projects have in common. It also focused on innovation road-mapping, standardisation, and outreach opportunities to expedite the practical applications of graphene.

The Science and Technology Forum held on February 6th delved into the trajectory of graphene advancement and EU funding, emphasising the European Union’s strategic initiative, Innovative Advanced Materials for the EU (IAM4EU). It was underscored during the Forum that the upcoming years will play a critical role in shaping the future of 2D advanced materials.

The gathering fostered invaluable face-to-face interactions, enabling deeper understanding and collaboration among the participating projects. Overall, it was a rewarding experience facilitating future collaborations.

For more information on the Graphene Flagship Common Kick-Off meeting, click here.

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ARMS WP1 leader honoured for his role in advancing the energy industry in Latvia

In a remarkable celebration at the end of December 2023, Latvian scientists gathered to receive the prestigious Annual Energy Awards, a joint initiative by JSC Latvenergo and the Latvian Academy of Sciences. This event marked the twenty-fifth consecutive year of honouring outstanding contributions and accomplishments in the dynamic field of energy.

Dr. Gints Kučinskis, who leads ARMS WP1 and serves as the esteemed head of the Laboratory of Materials for Energy Harvesting and Storage at the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL), has been honoured with the Annual Energy Award for Young Scientists. This recognition acknowledges his work "Research of cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries".

The awards ceremony recognised exceptional achievements and underscored Latvia's unwavering commitment to innovation and progress in the energy sector. The laureates, including Dr. Kučinskis, were applauded for their scientific endeavours, which pave the way for a sustainable and climate-neutral future for Latvia and beyond.

As the new year unfolded, Dr. Kučinskis continued to be a prominent figure in Latvia's scientific community. On January 8, he participated in the opening of the #ZinātneLatvijai2024 (Research Latvia 2024) calendar and exhibition in Riga, proudly standing as one of the faces of this year's calendar.

Initiated by the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia, the calendar pays homage to scientists who exhibit passion and exceptional prowess in their respective fields. Minister of Education and Science Anda Čakša warmly welcomed participants at the event, emphasising the significance of their contributions.

The calendar unfolds the captivating stories of twelve personalities, each dedicated to addressing global challenges and everyday issues through their research. The featured areas of expertise range from heterogeneous single-chip systems and programming to innovative polymers, materials for lithium and sodium-ion batteries, satellite data, geographic information systems, molecular genetics, functional genomics, fluorine, supramolecular chemistry, sustainable land resource and landscape management, creative business, utilisation of sustainable materials in packaging, and wastewater monitoring and treatment.

Gints Kučinskis continues to inspire through his research, which significantly contributes to the ARMS project's goal of fostering a sustainable and resilient future.

Video in Latvian of Gints Kučinskis receiving the Annual Energy Award for Young Scientists

Promotional video of the #ResearchLatvia2024 calendar featuring Gints Kučinskis