High-performance stretchable supercapacitor with PEDOT-AgNanowires current collector in acidic electrolyte

Interdisciplinary advancements are propelling the swift development of wearable technology. Unlike traditional devices, stretchable supercapacitors face a narrower selection of materials and stricter demands regarding system design, device integrity, mechanical robustness, long-term durability, and operational compatibility. Silver nanowires (AgNWs) are recognized for their outstanding electrical conductivity, flexibility, and scalability, making them suitable for stretchable supercapacitors. However, their performance is compromised by corrosion from acidic electrolytes, particularly after stretching and prolonged cycling. Herein, we introduce a Poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) coated AgNWs as a stretchable current collector, and the excellent mechanical/electrochemical properties of AgNWs were protected from acidic electrolyte corrosion, realizing fast double-layer capacitance behavior at high scan rates of 1000 mV/s and high current densities 5 mA cm⁻² for 6900 cycles. A maximum stretching rate of 140 % with 96.3 % capacity retention was achieved. With a robust electrode network, microcracks formed to boost the 0–60 % stretch/release to 3000 cycles and a maximum capacity of 503.42 mF/cm². The acidic stretchable supercapacitor material innovation provides an opportunity for next-generation wearable devices.