Nagaland University Researchers Develop Biodegradable Gelatin-Based Electrolyte for Safer, High-Performance Supercapacitors
In a major scientific breakthrough, researchers at Nagaland University have developed a biodegradable gelatin-based hydrogel membrane electrolyte that promises to make future energy storage devices safer, more flexible, and environmentally sustainable.
The innovative material, called KI-doped glyoxal-crosslinked gelatin hydrogel membrane electrolyte (GNHME), serves as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional liquid electrolytes used in supercapacitors—key components in electric vehicles (EVs), medical wearables, and renewable energy systems.
Supercapacitors are fast-charging, high-output energy storage devices, but traditional versions often rely on hazardous liquid electrolytes that can leak, corrode components, and harm the environment. Addressing these challenges, the Nagaland University research team developed the new gelatin-based hydrogel, combining a naturally biodegradable protein (gelatin) with glyoxal for flexibility and potassium iodide (KI) to enhance ionic conductivity and capacitance.
The result is a semi-transparent, flexible, and stable solid electrolyte capable of maintaining performance over thousands of charge–discharge cycles, making it ideal for next-generation solid-state supercapacitors.
The findings were published in the reputed peer-reviewed journal Materials Today Chemistry (Impact Factor: 6.7). The innovation has also been granted an Indian patent (Patent No. 570983, dated 22 September 2025).
The study was co-authored by Mr. Duangailung Kamei (Lead Researcher), Mr. Dipankar Hazarika (Co-researcher), and Dr. Nurul Alam Choudhury (Supervisor and Principal Investigator) from the Department of Chemistry, Nagaland University. The project received funding support from the University Grants Commission (UGC), Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), and the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India.
Applauding the achievement, Prof. Jagadish K. Patnaik, Vice Chancellor of Nagaland University, said,
“This remarkable innovation reflects our commitment to advancing sustainable technologies and contributing to a greener future. I congratulate the research team for their dedication and pioneering work that enhances the university’s role in promoting scientific excellence and environmental responsibility.”
Dr. Nurul Alam Choudhury, Assistant Professor and team supervisor, highlighted that the development of redox-active biodegradable solid electrolytes is “an important step toward realizing eco-friendly, high-performance energy storage systems compatible with renewable energy integration.”
Unlike conventional electrolytes, this quasi-solid hydrogel is biodegradable, leak-proof, and superabsorbent, capable of holding water up to 717% of its weight. Prototype supercapacitors using this membrane have already demonstrated practical potential by powering LED lamps for extended durations.
Lead researcher Mr. Duangailung Kamei added that the team is now optimizing dopant composition to enhance energy density and extend device lifespan, with plans to scale up membrane fabrication for real-world testing.
Co-researcher Mr. Dipankar Hazarika noted that the project underscores India’s growing role in clean energy innovation, offering a cost-effective, high-performance, and eco-friendly alternative for future-ready supercapacitors.
The biodegradable gelatin membrane could significantly reduce environmental risks and manufacturing costs while improving safety for applications such as wearable medical devices, implantable sensors, and renewable energy systems.