Analysis and Evaluation of Charge-Balancing Circuits on Performance, Reliability, and Lifetime of Supercapacitor Systems

Abstract

Supercapacitors, also known as ultracapacitors or electric double-layer capacitors (ELDCs), are electrical energy storage devices, which offer high power density, extremely high cycling capability, and mechanical robustness. Due to their electrical performance, supercapacitors have a high potential to be used in industrial applications. To improve the performance, reliability, and lifetime of these capacitors, charge-balancing circuits are employed. In this paper, different equalization concepts are analyzed and evaluated. In addition, a simulation approach for the design of supercapacitor systems is proposed. As an example, results from an automotive application are presented.