Leading research groups in structural power composites (SPCs), spanning institutions such as Imperial College London, Durham University, KTH, Chalmers, University of Vienna, A-Star, NTU Singapore and Texas A&M, have jointly published a paper in Advanced Energy Materials. The work sets out the characterization requirements and reporting protocols for this emerging class of multifunctional materials, aiming to lay the groundwork for formal standards critical to industrial adoption.

SPCs represent a new frontier in composites, functioning as both structural materials and electrochemical energy storage devices. Innovations such as structural supercapacitors and structural batteries demonstrate the potential for weight savings, reduced wiring, and enhanced system integration, with applications ranging from electric aircraft floor panels powering seatback entertainment systems to everyday products such as phones, cars and medical devices. Recognized by the World Economic Forum as one of the Top 10 Emerging Technologies of 2025, SPCs could reshape both energy storage and composite design.

However, integrating electrochemical and structural performance presents significant challenges due to differing standards, nomenclature, and reporting methods across disciplines. To address this, the paper recommends benchmarking SPC multifunctional performance against conventional composites and standalone electrochemical cells, with standardized normalization methods.

One of the key proposals is the creation of a universal testing coupon capable of simultaneous mechanical and electrochemical characterization, allowing for more credible data on multifunctional performance and enabling identification of coupling effects such as mechanical strain influencing electrochemical behavior. Widespread adoption of this protocol would enhance data reliability, supporting SPC development and accelerating their industrialization.

Source: advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com