Electrically powered paper may be the new slim and efficient form of new technology.

Swedish scientists have recently discovered how to store electricity in a paper-like material. One sheet of ‘paper’ measuring 15 centimeters in diameter and under 0.5 millimeters in thickness can store one farad of electrical capacitance. Just one farad equates to many super capacitors used in electric devices today. Because of this, the efficiently slim energy storage system has been referred to as ‘Power Paper’. This material can also be recharged, lasting hundreds of charge cycles and only taking a few seconds to power up again.

To the touch, Power Paper has more of a plastic feel, although still appearing as a black paper. Additionally, it can be folded into origami due to its lightweight qualities, sharing many similar characteristics to standard paper.

How is the Power Paper made?

The sheets of Power Paper are initially created by breaking down cellulose fibers from using high pressure water. The fibers are then added to a water solution in which contains and electrically charged polymer; this polymer then forms a thin coating over the fibers. Unlike batteries which use a large amount of metal and often contain toxic chemicals, Power Paper is made from simple materials such as readily available polymer and renewable cellulose.

Will Power Paper be widely used in the future?

This new form of paper technology has been proven to be an innovative electricity storage material in which could be adapted in many ways. The only downside to this scientific breakthrough is the fact that the energy stored paper needs to be dehydrated in order to make the sheeting. If this factor can be resolved, this paper could be something we see a lot more of in the future.

For more information about Power Paper visit Science Alert here.