New Delhi: Researchers at Nagaland University have developed a flexible supercapacitor device that can power next-generation wearable electronics, electric vehicles (EVs), and renewable energy systems, marking a major advancement in energy storage technology.

According to officials, this is the first study to compare tungsten, vanadium, and cobalt doping in molybdenum diselenide for energy storage. Going beyond lab-scale material development, the researchers built a working prototype of the flexible supercapacitor, demonstrating its practical potential.

The innovation could have immediate applications in health-monitoring devices, IoT gadgets, and robotics, while also enhancing EV performance through improved regenerative braking, quicker acceleration, and extended battery life, they said.

Vijeth H, Assistant Professor at Nagaland University, said the research could help India reduce its dependence on imported batteries while promoting clean energy and storage technologies under the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat.

Published in RSC Advances, a journal of the Royal Society of Chemistry, the study found that cobalt doping was the most effective among the tested elements. The team used a simple, eco-friendly hydrothermal process to synthesize the material, making it scalable for industrial use.

“This device combines flexibility, high energy storage, and durability — all critical for future portable technologies,” Vijeth said, adding that the work highlights scientific excellence from the North East and strengthens India's self-reliant energy ecosystem.

Pewe-u Marhu, Research Scholar in the Department of Physics, said the team now aims to optimize the electrode-electrolyte interface, improve safety using solid-state gel electrolytes, and scale up production through industry collaborations.

The project received funding from the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) and received characterisation support from IISc Bengaluru under its INUP Program.