22 - Nanocomposites in power generation

Abstract

This book chapter aims to compile some of the notable work carried out on nanocomposites in many applications including morphological, mechanical, energy storage systems, power generation, and high-end applications. Polymer nanocomposites (PNC) are discerned for their superior mechanical properties compared to general composite materials. Nanocomposites have several important abilities, some of them are capable of fatigue resistance, can withstand corrosion, and are used in making lightweight materials with no compromise in terms of reliability. Currently, many 3D printed porous carbon aerogels use cellulosic nanocrystals for making electrodes in ultralow-temperature supercapacitors, minimizing the heating needs for space and future polar missions. The best example is the successful landing of Perseverance Rover on Mars by NASA scientists. In this book chapter, recent research findings on nanocomposites in energy generation, energy storage, and synthesis of nanocomposites, and a systematic literature review are reported. The different software (e.g., COMSOL multiphysics) and simulation models used are reported to the sustainable power generation source by nanocomposites. Also, several PNC materials such as metal oxides, carbon nanotubes, nanoclays, graphenes, poly (3, 4-ethylene dioxythiophene)-poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS), and acid-functionalized cellulose nanocrystals, and their unique applications with significant physicochemical, physical, mechanical, structural, and electrical properties as well as environmental stability are thoroughly reviewed.