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AbstractNanoclays (layered silicates) have been applied as effective reinforcements for range of natural and synthetic polymeric matrices. Recent research has turned toward design and exploration of green nanocomposites using green polymers and nanoclay nanofillers. This state-of-the-art comprehensive overview debates design and performance prospects of green nanoclay nanocomposites. In this regard, numerous green polymers like poly(lactic acid), poly(vinyl alcohol), natural rubber, cellulose, starch, etc. have been considered. The effectiveness of green nanoclay nanocomposites has been analyzed through microscopic, electrical, mechanical, thermal, adsorption, and biomedical properties and wide span of applications such as packaging, dye removal, and biomedical sectors. Packaging based on cellulose/montmorillonite had very low water vapor transmission rate of 43 g/m2.day, whereas poly(lactic acid)/cellulose/montmorillonite packaging performed better with high water vapor transmission rate of 512–1861 g/m2.day. Poly(vinyl alcohol)/Cloisite Na possess optimum water vapor transmission rate of 533 g/m2.day. Nanocellulose/nanoclay packagings have also been found ideal due to low water vapor permeability (6.3–13.3 g.μm/m2.day.kPa) and oxygen permeability (0.07 cm3μm/m2.day.kPa) values. In dye removal applications, poly(ethylene glycol)/montmorillonite revealed optimum dye adsorption capacities of 190–237 mg/g, where chitosan/montmorillonite had high dye adsorption capacity of 446.43 mg/g. Poly(lactic acid)/modified Cloisite 20 A systems also own high dye adsorption efficiency of 97%. Poly(ɛ-caprolactone) and poly(vinyl alcohol) systems with montmorillonite nanoclay have effective drug delivery, tissue engineering, and wound healing applications. Furthermore, dielectric, mechanical, non-flammability, and self-extinguishing features of cellulose/montmorillonite nanocomposite systems have been reported. Future of these nanomaterials definitely relies on innovative design, facile fabrication strategies, and overcoming related challenges.

AbstractNanoporous graphene own high surface area and unique structural and physical properties due to nano-sized pores in graphene nanosheet. Nanoporous graphene has been modified by the introduction of surface functional groups, doping, or nanoparticle modification and applied for nanocomposites. The overview basically highlights design, properties, and potential of functionalized nanoporous graphene derived nanocomposites in advanced membranes (desalination/gas/oil separation), thermal management, electrocatalysts, and micro-supercapacitors. According to literature, pore size of neat nanoporous graphene is 3–11 Å and hydroxyl functional nanoporous graphene also had nanopore size of

Development of graphene nanocomposite membranes has gained increasing research attention owing to physical and operational benefits for technical applications. The surface structure and physicochemical features of graphene nanocomposite membranes have been found indispensable for carbon capture. This state-of-the art review article has covered the advancements of high performance graphene nanocomposite membranes regarding carbon capture. Preferably, graphene nanocomposite membranes have been focused for low price, fine microstructure, ease of fabrication, durability, robustness, and superior physical features. Graphene reinforcement has been used to enhance the performance of traditional membrane materials like polysulfone, poly(ether sulfone), polyvinylamine, and other matrices. Studies have revealed that the design, porosity, pore size, and pore distribution of graphene nanocomposite membranes can be altered to attain high permeability, selectivity, and CO2 capture and separation properties. Future smart carbon capture graphene membrane architectures can be focused with more defined and controlled pore size, distribution, nanostructure, and interactions towards carbon seizure.

This state-of-the art review is designed to state the competence of fullerene nanostructures in optoelectronic devices. Fullerene molecules own valuable structural, electronic, optical, electrical, and physical properties to be employed in optoelectronics device sector. Especially, modification of fullerene nanostructures and nanocomposite formation led to high performance light emitting diodes, optical sensors, and photovoltaics systems. Combination of conjugated polymers/molecules with fullerene has found to further enhance performance efficacy towards these devices. In nanocomposite form, fullerene molecules have been known to develop conjugation with conducting polymers for better charge, hole, or electron transference leading to device performance assistances. Consequently, conjugated polymers like poly(3-hexylthiophene), poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl), polystyrene sulfonate, polycyclopenta-dithiophene-benzothiadiazole, poly(2-methoxy-5-(2′-ethylhexyloxy)-1,4-phenylenevinylene), 4,4′-bis[(p-trichlorosilylpropylphenyl)phenylamino] biphenyl, etc. reinforced with fullerene have been utilized. Polymers with grafted fullerenes such as [6,6]-phenyl C61-butyric acid methyl ester and [6,6]-phenyl-C61-butyric acid hexyl ester and reinforced fullerene have also been recognized. In addition, non-conducting polymers like poly(methyl methacrylate) nanocomposite with fullerene was exploited. Mostly, fullerene C60 and C70 have been preferred as nanofiller in optoelectronic assemblies. Effectiveness of fullerene nanomaterials has been observed for luminescent light emitting diodes, solar cells (bulk heterojunction/polymer/perovskite), and optical sensors (photo-/organic/bacterial sensing). Nevertheless, fullerene nanocomposite designs need to be comprehensively investigated for better device performance by overcoming underlying working mechanism, fabrication, and performance challenges in related fields.

Exceptional category of alloys comprising five or more alloying metals in structures are referred as high entropy alloys. Uniqueness of these alloys have been observed due to the combination of superior mechanical, thermal, conducting, anticorrosion, and other physical properties. Unlike traditional metallic alloys (two metals), the varying elemental compositions led to limitless potential possibilities. Recent research has unveiled an important opportunity for high entropy alloys based nanostructures like nanoparticles and nanocomposites. This state-of-the-art review is basically intended to highlight the design and essential structure, property, and applied aspects of essential high entropy alloy based nanostructures. Consequently, various notable nanoparticles and combinations of high entropy alloys with carbon nanoparticles (graphene, carbon nanotube) and inorganic nanoparticles have been surveyed. In this context, several nanocomposite designs have been reported using the efficient techniques like thermal shock, flame spray pyrolysis, plasma spark sintering, mechanical milling, alloying, electrochemical, and solution to name a few. The resulting high entropy alloy derived nanomaterials have been researched for microstructure, nanocrystalline structure, different mechanical features (microhardness, modulus, stress–strain, compression properties), wear, electrochemical, thermal, and range of other physical properties. Consequently, research on high entropy alloy nanostructures has pointed towards the applied fields of energy storage (batteries and supercapacitors), radiation shielding, corrosion/wear coatings, and biomedical uses.

This overview is designed to highpoint the existing field state of graphene and derived nanocomposites towards most demanding energy devices and systems. Recently, adopting efficient energy conversion and storage systems for technical practices have attained increasing research focus. Owing to unique structure, microstructure, and methodological features, graphene nanomaterials have been focused towards advanced systems like lithium ion batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells. Graphene nanocomposites have been recognized for high surface area, electron transference, charge capacity, specific capacitance, charge-discharge capabilities, cyclability, power conversion efficiency, fuel cell parameters, and competent features. In addition, specific features of graphene nanocomposites include exceptional microstructure and mechanical, thermal, and chemical reliability characteristics. In spite of indispensable characteristics of graphene nanocomposites, several processing and property challenges need to be resolved to achieve high-tech graphene nanocomposites towards advanced energy storage/conversion devices and systems.

Graphene has been employed in the methodological energy maneuvers due to remarkable structure and features, however the use is limited due to nanosheet aggregation issues. Metal-organic framework has also been used for energy systems, nevertheless possess low conductivity and stability issues towards application. This state-of-the-art review is designed to present essential aspects of graphene and metal-organic framework (MOF) hybrids and utilization towards the modern energy devices and systems. Amid energy storage devices, graphene-MOF hybrids have been found functional for lithium ion batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells. Graphene-MOF hybrids have been searched for surface area, structural, microstructural, and physical features. For the formation of hybrids related to energy systems, techniques such as template, heating, solution, in situ, hydrothermal, freeze-drying, chemical vapor deposition, and related facile methods have been used. Consequently, the electron conduction, electrochemical features, charge/energy density, charge-discharge, reversible capacity, cyclic stability, specific capacitance, electrocatalytic activity, oxygen reduction reactions, and other factors related to lithium ion batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells have been reported. For these systems, graphene-MOF hybrids have been developed towards electrode and electrolyte formation. Future progress on designing efficient three dimensional graphene-MOF hybrids materials may overawe the synthesis, conductivity, and stability challenges towards high performance energy device materials.

One dimensional hollow cylindrical carbon nanotube nanostructure has played essential role in nanotechnology advancements, since its discovery. In technical fields, carbon nanotube has been applied in pristine as well as in nanocomposite form. Consequently, carbon nanotube has been composited with various conductive and non-conducting matrices as per desired end purposes. In sensing technology, significant breakthroughs have been observed regarding multifunctional carbon nanotube nanocomposites. Common matrices used in this concern include conjugated polymers like poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene): polystyrene sulfonic acid, polyaniline, etc. along with some thermoplastics like polyamide, polyurethane, etc. In these matrices, carbon nanotube can form percolation network for electron or charge transportation and may also develop interfacial interactions for fine compatibility, stability, and robustness. Sensing features of the ensuing carbon nanotube nanocomposites depend upon their interactions with the analyte (gasses/ions, biomolecules, or motion). Consequently, nanocomposites have been used to develop efficient gas sensors, strain sensors, and biosensors. Performance of carbon nanotube sensors have been analyzed depending upon the sensitivity, selectivity, detection limit, reproducibility, and responses towards analytes.

This state-of-the-art review is designed to provide a factual analysis of indoor air pollution in Pakistan. Primarily, the main sources of indoor air pollution and related air pollutants were analyzed. Key sources of indoor air pollution include household energy sources (biomass, wood, coal, tobacco, and low temperatures) producing particulate matter (PM), dust particles, smoke, COx, noxious gases, bioaerosols, airborne microflora, and flame retardants. According to the literature, rural regions of Pakistan using biomass indoor fuels have a high indoor PM concentration in the range of 4000–9000 μg/m3. In rural/urban regions, indoor smoking also leads to high PM2.5 levels of ~1800 μg/m3, which can cause pulmonary infections. In hospitals, PM concentrations were detected up to 1000 μg/m3, causing repeated infections in patients. Indoor ingestion of dust containing polychlorinated biphenyl concentrations was observed at high levels (~8.79–34.39 ng/g) in cities; this can cause serious health effects such as cancer risks and a loss of working productivity. Moreover, indoor microflora and bacteria (~10,000–15,000 cfu m−3) in urban/rural regions cause respiratory/cancer risks. In this context, indoor air quality (IAQ) monitoring and management strategies have been somewhat developed; however, their implementation in Pakistan’s rural/urban indoor environments is still needed. Various challenges were identified for monitoring/regulating IAQ. There is a firm need for industry–academia–research cooperation and for the involvement of government/agencies to support indoor air pollution control/management and for intervention strategies.

Fullerene, an intimate zero dimensional nanocarbon, has been frequently adopted as nanocomposite reinforcement. Imperative utilizations of fullerene and derived nanocomposites have been observed in energy, optical, and electronics devices sectors. Conjugated or conductive polymers have π-conjugation backbone system leading to semiconducting features. In addition to fine electron conduction, these polymers have advantages of low weight, facile processing, and chemical and thermal robustness. Including nanocarbon dopants in conjugated polymers have enhanced several technical features of these matrices. Accordingly, this progressive overview highlights design, properties, and potential of fullerene reinforced conducting polymer nanocomposites. The structural multiplicity of conducting polymer/fullerene nanocomposites enabled advanced features and potential. Consequently, ensuing nanocomposites revealed efficient structural, morphological, and physical characteristics, along with several revolts in technological fields like photovoltaics, supercapacitors, sensors, etc. Forthcoming research on ground-breaking fullerene may daze design/performance challenges towards large scale practical applications.

With the nanomaterial advancements, graphene based electrodes have been developed and used for energy storage applications. Important energy storage devices like supercapacitors and batteries have employed the electrodes based on pristine graphene or graphene derived nanocomposites. This review mainly portrays the application of efficient graphene and derived nanocomposites in substantial energy storage devices (supercapacitors and Li ion batteries). The structural and physical features of graphene-based nanocomposites such as high surface area, robustness, heat stability, electron conduction, specific capacitance, charge or energy density, charge-discharge performance, capacity, cyclic stability, performance life, etc. have been found beneficial for these devices. Despite the superior nanocomposite features and ensuing high devices performance, numerous challenges need to be overcome to attain future desirable energy storage device performance.

The design and necessity of corrosion-resisting nanocarbon nanocomposites have been investigated for cutting-edge aerospace applications. In this regard, nanocarbon nanofillers, especially carbon nanotubes, graphene, nanodiamond, etc. have been used to fill in various polymeric matrices (thermosets, thermoplastics, and conducting polymers) to develop anti-rusting space-related nanocomposites. This review fundamentally emphases the design, anti-corrosion properties, and application of polymer/nanocarbon nanocomposites for the space sector. An electron-conducting network is created in the polymers with nanocarbon dispersion to assist in charge transportation, and thus in the polymers’ corrosion resistance features. The corrosion resistance mechanism depends upon the formation of tortuous diffusion pathways due to nanofiller arrangement in the matrices. Moreover, matrix–nanofiller interactions and interface formation play an important role in enhancing the corrosion protection properties. The anticorrosion nanocomposites were tested for their adhesion, contact angle, and impedance properties, and NaCl tests and scratch tests were carried out. Among the polymers, epoxy was found to be superior corrosion-resisting polymer, relative to the thermoplastic polymers in these nanocomposites. Among the carbon nanotubes, graphene, and nanodiamond, the carbon nanotube with a loading of up to 7 wt.% in the epoxy matrix was desirable for corrosion resistance. On the other hand, graphene contents of up to 1 wt.% and nanodiamond contents of 0.2–0.4 wt.% were desirable to enhance the corrosion resistance of the epoxy matrix. The impedance, anticorrosion, and adhesion properties of epoxy nanocomposites were found to be better than those of the thermoplastic materials. Despite the success of nanocarbon nanocomposites in aerospace applications, thorough research efforts are still needed to design high-performance anti-rusting materials to completely replace the use of metal components in the aerospace industry.

This article fundamentally reviews progress in the design and manufacturing of three-dimensional (3D) graphene-based nanocomposites for technical applications. The 3D graphene nanostructures have been manufactured using techniques like the template method, chemical vapor deposition, sol-gel, freeze-drying, hydrothermal technique, and other approaches. The nanofoam has been reinforced in polymers to achieve superior structural, morphological, and physical characteristics of the ensuing polymer/graphene nanofoam nanocomposites. The polymer/graphene nanofoam nanocomposites have been manufactured using the approaches like direct template method, in situ technique, infiltration process, and other methods. The 3D nanofoam- and polymer-based nanostructures have shown high specific surface area, suppleness, electron transport, thermal conduction, mechanical resilience, and other physical properties. The technical applications of hierarchical graphene nanofoams have been observed in the fields of radiation shielding, solar cells, supercapacitors, fuel cells, and other applications.

Due to increasing health and environmental issues, indoor air quality (IAQ) has garnered much research attention with regard to incorporating advanced clean air technologies. Various physicochemical air treatments have been used to monitor, control, and manage air contaminants, such as monitoring devices (gas sensors and internet of things-based systems), filtration (mechanical and electrical), adsorption, UV disinfection, UV photocatalysts, a non-thermal plasma approach, air conditioning systems, and green technologies (green plants and algae). This article reviews presently viable technologies for cleaning indoor air and enhancing IAQ. However, regarding the integration of each technology, there are certain limitations to these methods, including the types of pollutants released. As a result, advanced nanomaterials have been applied to monitoring sensors, filtration and adsorption media, and UV photocatalysts to improve IAQ values. The most important nanomaterials used in this regard include polymeric nanofibrous membranes, nanoporous nanomaterials, nanocomposite hydrogels, polymer/nanocarbon nanocomposite, polymer/metal oxide nanocomposite, polymeric nanohybrids, etc. Accordingly, through the use of nanotechnology, optimal solutions linking IAQ regulation techniques to novel nanomaterials can be achieved to attain safe IAQ levels.

This review article highlights essential manufacturing strategies for the formation of graphene reinforced polymeric nanocomposites. For graphene reinforced thermoplastic, thermosetting and conducting matrix nanomaterials have been manufactured using solution casting, melt blending, in situ polymerization, electrospinning, 3D printing, and several other techniques. Solution processing has been well thought-out as an advantageous technique, relative to melt mixing, in terms of graphene dispersion in polymeric matrices. An in situ polymerization process has also been considered valuable to form homogeneously dispersed polymer/graphene nanocomposites having superior physical characteristics. Nevertheless, the manufacturing techniques for polymer/graphene nanocomposites have relative advantages and disadvantages to be considered for graphene-based nanocomposites. Moreover, numerous challenges need to be overcome to optimize the processing parameters for the fabrication of high-performance polymer/graphene nanocomposites.

Polymeric coatings have been widely selected for the corrosion resistance of metallic surfaces. Both the conducting and non-conducting polymers have been applied for corrosion confrontation. The conducting polymers usually possess high electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance features. On the other hand, non-conducting hydrophobic polymers have also been used to avert the metal erosion. To improve the corrosion inhibition performance of the polymer coatings, nanocarbon nanofillers have been used as reinforcement. Graphene, especially, has gained an important position in the research on the corrosion-protecting nanocomposite coatings. Here, graphene dispersion and matrix–nanofiller interactions may significantly improve the anti-corrosion performance to protect the underlying metals. The graphene nanofiller may form an interconnecting percolation network in the polymers to support their electrical conductivity and thus their corrosion confrontation characteristics. Further research on the polymer/graphene nanocomposite and its anti-corrosion mechanism may lead to great advancements in this field.

This article highlights advancements in polymeric composite/nanocomposites processes and applications for improved radiation shielding and high-rate attenuation for the spacecraft. Energetic particles, mostly electrons and protons, can annihilate or cause space craft hardware failures. The standard practice in space electronics is the utilization of aluminum as radiation safeguard and structural enclosure. In space, the materials must be lightweight and capable of withstanding extreme temperature/mechanical loads under harsh environments, so the research has focused on advanced multi-functional materials. In this regard, low-Z materials have been found effective in shielding particle radiation, but their structural properties were not sufficient for the desired space applications. As a solution, polymeric composites or nanocomposites have been produced having enhanced material properties and enough radiation shielding (gamma, cosmic, X-rays, protons, neutrons, etc.) properties along with reduced weight. Advantageously, the polymeric composites or nanocomposites can be layered to form multi-layered shields. Hence, polymer composites/nanocomposites offer promising alternatives to developing materials for efficiently attenuating photon or particle radiation. The latest technology developments for micro/nano reinforced polymer composites/nanocomposites have also been surveyed here for the radiation shielding of space crafts and aerospace structures. Moreover, the motive behind this state-of-the-art overview is to put forward recommendations for high performance design/applications of reinforced nanocomposites towards future radiation shielding technology in the spacecraft.

Electromagnetic interference is considered a serious threat to electrical devices, the environment, and human beings. In this regard, various shielding materials have been developed and investigated. Graphene is a two-dimensional, one-atom-thick nanocarbon nanomaterial. It possesses several remarkable structural and physical features, including transparency, electron conductivity, heat stability, mechanical properties, etc. Consequently, it has been used as an effective reinforcement to enhance electrical conductivity, dielectric properties, permittivity, and electromagnetic interference shielding characteristics. This is an overview of the utilization and efficacy of state-of-the-art graphene-derived nanocomposites for radiation shielding. The polymeric matrices discussed here include conducting polymers, thermoplastic polymers, as well as thermosets, for which the physical and electromagnetic interference shielding characteristics depend upon polymer/graphene interactions and interface formation. Improved graphene dispersion has been observed due to electrostatic, van der Waals, π-π stacking, or covalent interactions in the matrix nanofiller. Accordingly, low percolation thresholds and excellent electrical conductivity have been achieved with nanocomposites, offering enhanced shielding performance. Graphene has been filled in matrices like polyaniline, polythiophene, poly(methyl methacrylate), polyethylene, epoxy, and other polymers for the formation of radiation shielding nanocomposites. This process has been shown to improve the electromagnetic radiation shielding effectiveness. The future of graphene-based nanocomposites in this field relies on the design and facile processing of novel nanocomposites, as well as overcoming the remaining challenges in this field.

Research on polymer nanocomposite nanofibers has seen remarkable growth over the past several years. One of the main driving forces for this progress is the increasing applicability of polymer nanocomposite nanofibers for technological applications. This review basically aims to present the current state of manufacturing polymer/graphene nanofiber nanocomposites, using appropriate techniques. Consequently, various conducting and thermoplastic polymers have been processed with graphene nano-reinforcement to fabricate the nanocomposite nanofibers. Moreover, numerous methods have been adopted for the fabrication of polymer/graphene nanocomposites and nanofibers including interfacial polymerization, phase separation, freeze drying, template synthesis, drawing techniques, etc. For the formation of polymer/graphene nanocomposite nanofibers, electrospinning can be preferable due to various advantages such as the need for simple equipment, control over morphology, and superior properties of the obtained material. The techniques such as solution processing, melt spinning, and spin coating have also been used to manufacture nanofibers. Here, the choice of manufacturing techniques and parameters affects the final nanofiber morphology, texture, and properties. The manufactured nanocomposite nanofibers have been examined for exceptional structural, microstructure, thermal, and other physical properties. Moreover, the properties of polymer/graphene nanofiber rely on the graphene content, dispersion, and matrix–nanofiller interactions. The potential of polymer/graphene nanocomposite nanofibers has been investigated for radiation shielding, supercapacitors, membranes, and the biomedical field. Hence, this review explains the literature-driven significance of incorporating graphene in polymeric nanofibers. Conclusively, most of the studies focused on the electrospinning technique to design polymer/graphene nanofibers. Future research in this field may lead to advanced innovations in the design and technical applications of nanocomposite nanofibers. To the best of our knowledge, research reports are available on this topic; however, the stated literature is not in a compiled and updated form. Therefore, field researchers may encounter challenges in achieving future advancements in the area of graphene-based nanocomposite nanofibers without first consulting the recent literature, such as an assembled review, to gain necessary insights, etc. Consequently, this state-of-the-art review explores the manufacturing, properties, and potential of polymer/graphene nanocomposite nanofibers.

Among conducting polymers, polythiophene has gained an important stance due to its remarkable physical features. Graphene is a unique, two-dimensional, nanocarbon nanomaterial. As in other polymers, graphene has been reinforced in polythiophene to form advanced nanocomposites. This comprehensive review covers the design, essential features, and methodological potential of significant polythiophene and graphene-derived nanocomposites. In this context, various facile approaches, such as in situ processing, the solution method, and analogous simplistic means, have been applied. Consequently, polythiophene/graphene nanocomposites have been investigated for their notable electron conductivity, heat conduction, mechanical robustness, morphological profile, and other outstanding properties. Studies have revealed that graphene dispersion and interactions with the polythiophene matrix are responsible for enhancing the overall characteristics of nanocomposites. Fine graphene nanoparticle dispersal and linking with the matrix have led to several indispensable technical applications of these nanocomposites, such as supercapacitors, solar cells, sensors, and related devices. Further research on graphene nanocomposites with polythiophene may lead to remarkable achievements for advanced engineering and device-related materials.

Polyurethane is a multipurpose polymer with indispensable physical characteristics and technical uses, such as films/coatings, fibers, and foams. The inclusion of nanoparticles in the polyurethane matrix has further enhanced the properties and potential of this important polymer. Research in this field has led to the design and exploration of polyurethane foams and polyurethane nanocomposite foams. This review article reflects vital aspects related to the fabrication, features, and applications of polyurethane nanocomposite foams. High-performance nanocellular polyurethanes have been produced using carbon nanoparticles such as graphene and carbon nanotubes. Enhancing the amounts of nanofillers led to overall improved nanocomposite foam features and performances. Subsequently, polyurethane nanocomposite foams showed exceptional morphology, electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, thermal stability, and other physical properties. Consequently, multifunctional applications of polyurethane nanocomposite foams have been observed in shape memory, electromagnetic interference shielding, and biomedical applications.

Polymeric nanofibers have emerged as exclusive one-dimensional nanomaterials. Various polymeric nanofibers and nanocomposite nanofibers have been processed using the thermoplastic, conducting, and thermoset matrices. This review aims to highlight the worth of electrospinning technology for the processing of polymer/nanocarbon nanocomposite nanofibers. In this regard, the design, morphology, physical properties, and applications of the nanofibers were explored. The electrospun polymer/nanocarbon nanofibers have a large surface area and fine fiber orientation, alignment, and morphology. The fiber processing technique and parameters were found to affect the nanofiber morphology, diameter, and essential physical features such as electrical conductivity, mechanical properties, thermal stability, etc. The polymer nanocomposites with nanocarbon nanofillers (carbon nanotube, graphene, fullerene, etc.) were processed into high-performance nanofibers. Successively, the electrospun nanocomposite nanofibers were found to be useful for photovoltaics, supercapacitors, radiation shielding, and biomedical applications (tissue engineering, antimicrobials, etc.).

Among nanocomposite materials, multifunctional polymer nanocomposites have prompted important innovations in the field of sensing technology. Polymer-based nanocomposites have been successfully utilized to design high-tech sensors. Thus, conductive, thermoplast, or elastomeric, as well as natural polymers have been applied. Carbon nanoparticles as well as inorganic nanoparticles, such as metal nanoparticles or metal oxides, have reinforced polymer matrices for sensor fabrication. The sensing features and performances rely on the interactions between the nanocomposites and analytes like gases, ions, chemicals, biological species, and others. The multifunctional nanocomposite-derived sensors possess superior durability, electrical conductivity, sensitivity, selectivity, and responsiveness, compared with neat polymers and other nanomaterials. Due to the importance of polymeric nanocomposite for sensors, this novel overview has been expanded, focusing on nanocomposites based on conductive/non-conductive polymers filled with the nanocarbon/inorganic nanofillers. To the best of our knowledge, this article is innovative in its framework and the literature covered regarding the design, features, physical properties, and the sensing potential of multifunctional nanomaterials. Explicitly, the nanocomposites have been assessed for their strain-sensing, gas-sensing, bio-sensing, and chemical-sensing applications. Here, analyte recognition by nanocomposite sensors have been found to rely on factors such as nanocomposite design, polymer type, nanofiller type, nanofiller content, matrix–nanofiller interactions, interface effects, and processing method used. In addition, the interactions between a nanocomposite and analyte molecules are defined by high sensitivity, selectivity, and response time, as well as the sensing mechanism of the sensors. All these factors have led to the high-tech sensing applications of advanced nanocomposite-based sensors. In the future, comprehensive attempts regarding the innovative design, sensing mechanism, and the performance of progressive multifunctional nanocomposites may lead to better the strain-sensing, gas/ion-sensing, and chemical-sensing of analyte species for technical purposes.

This review mainly addresses applications of polymer/graphene nanocomposites in certain significant energy storage and conversion devices such as supercapacitors, Li-ion batteries, and fuel cells. Graphene has achieved an indispensable position among carbon nanomaterials owing to its inimitable structure and features. Graphene and its nanocomposites have been recognized for providing a high surface area, electron conductivity, capacitance, energy density, charge–discharge, cyclic stability, power conversion efficiency, and other advanced features in efficient energy devices. Furthermore, graphene-containing nanocomposites have superior microstructure, mechanical robustness, and heat constancy characteristics. Thus, this state-of-the-art article offers comprehensive coverage on designing, processing, and applying graphene-based nanoarchitectures in high-performance energy storage and conversion devices. Despite the essential features of graphene-derived nanocomposites, several challenges need to be overcome to attain advanced device performance.

Electromagnetic interference disturbs the working of electronic devices and affects the surroundings and human health. Consequently, research has led to the development of radiation-protection materials. Inherently conducting polymers have been found to be suitable for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding owing to their fine electrical conductivity properties. Moreover, nanoparticle-reinforced conjugated polymers have been used to form efficient nanocomposites for EMI shielding. Nanoparticle addition has further enhanced the radiation protection capability of conducting polymers. This state-of-the-art comprehensive review describes the potential of conducting polymer nanocomposites for EMI shielding. Conducting polymers, such as polyaniline, polypyrrole, and polythiophene, have been widely used to form nanocomposites with carbon, metal, and inorganic nanoparticles. The EMI shielding effectiveness of conducting polymers and nanocomposites has been the focus of researchers. Moreover, the microscopic, mechanical, thermal, magnetic, electrical, dielectric, and permittivity properties of nanocomposites have been explored. Electrically conducting materials achieve high EMI shielding by absorbing and/or dissipating the electromagnetic field. The future of these nanomaterials relies on nanomaterial design, facile processing, and overcoming dispersion and processing challenges in this field.

Nanoclays are layered mineral silicates, i.e., layered silicate nanosheets. Nanoclays such as montmorillonite, bentonite, kaolinite, etc., have been used as reinforcements in the nanofibers. Numerous polymers have been used to fabricate the nanofibers, including poly(vinylidene fluoride), poly(vinyl alcohol), polycaprolactone, nylon, polyurethane, poly(ethylene oxide), and others. To develop better compatibility with polymers, nanoclays have been organo-modified prior to reinforcement in the nanofiber matrices. This state-of-the-art review highlights the fundamentals, design, fabrication, and characteristics of the polymer/nanoclay nanofibers. The nanoclay filled nanocomposite nanofibers have been fabricated using electrospinning and other fiber processing techniques. The electrospinning technique has been preferred to form the nanoclay-filled nanofibers, owing to the better control of processing parameters and resulting nanofiber properties. The electrospun polymer/nanoclay nanofibers usually have fine nanoparticle dispersions, microstructures, smooth textures, and narrow diameters. The physical properties of the designed nanofibers depend upon the processing technology used, solvent, solution/melt concentration, flow rate, spinning speed, voltage, and other process parameters. Hence, this review attempts to assess a literature-driven consequence of embedding nanoclays in the polymeric nanofibers in a broad context of the application of these fibrous materials. Conclusively, to design the polymer/nanoclay nanofibers, montmorillonite nanoclay has been observed as a nanofiller in most of the studies, and, similarly, the electrospinning technique was preferred as a fabrication technique. Almost all the physical properties of the nanofibers studied revealed dependences upon the choice of the polymer matrix for nanofiber formation as well as the nanoclay contents, modification, and dispersion state. Accordingly, the nylon/nanoclay nanofibers have been investigated for nanofiller dispersion, mechanical properties, and thermal profiles. The antibacterial properties were among the prominent features of the poly(vinyl alcohol)/nanoclay nanofibers. The poly(vinylidene fluoride)/nanoclay systems were explored for the microstructure, crystallinity, and piezoelectric properties. The polycaprolactone/nanoclay nanofibers having fine microstructure were capable of forming tissue engineering scaffolds. The drug delivery and sound absorption properties were noticeable for the polyurethane/nanoclay nanofiber systems. Moreover, the poly(lactic acid)/nanoclay nanofibers were found to have prominent biodegradability and low gas permeability features. The resulting polymer/nanoclay nanocomposite nanofiber systems found potential for the technical applications of sensors, packaging, tissue engineering, and wound healing. However, thorough research efforts have been found to be desirable to find the worth of polymer/nanoclay nanofibers in several concealed technological sectors of energy, electronics, aerospace, automotives, and biomedical fields.

Self-healing polymers and nanocomposites form an important class of responsive materials. These materials have the capability to reversibly heal their damage. For aerospace applications, thermosets and thermoplastic polymers have been reinforced with nanocarbon nanoparticles for self-healing of structural damage. This review comprehends the use of self-healing nanocomposites in the aerospace sector. The self-healing behavior of the nanocomposites depends on factors such as microphase separation, matrix–nanofiller interactions and inter-diffusion of polymer–nanofiller. Moreover, self-healing can be achieved through healing agents such as nanocapsules and nanocarbon nanoparticles. The mechanism of self-healing has been found to operate via physical or chemical interactions. Self-healing nanocomposites have been used to design structural components, panels, laminates, membranes, coatings, etc., to recover the damage to space materials. Future research must emphasize the design of new high-performance self-healing polymeric nanocomposites for aerospace structures.

Fuel cell efficiency can be improved by using progressive electrodes and electrolytes. Green nanomaterials and green technologies have been explored for the manufacturing of high-performance electrode and electrolyte materials for fuel cells. Platinum-based electrodes have been replaced with green materials and nanocomposites using green fabrication approaches to attain environmentally friendly fuel cells. In this regard, ecological and sustainable electrode- and electrolyte-based membrane electrode assemblies have also been designed. Moreover, green nanocomposites have been applied to form the fuel cell electrolyte membranes. Among fuel cells, microbial fuel cells have gained research attention for the incorporation of green and sustainable materials. Hence, this review essentially focuses on the potential of green nanocomposites as fuel cell electrode and electrolyte materials and application of green synthesis techniques to attain these materials. The design of and interactions with nanocomposites have led to synergistic effects on the morphology, impedance, resistance, power density, current density, electrochemical features, proton conductivity, and overall efficiency. Moreover, we deliberate the future significance and challenges of the application of green nanocomposites in electrodes and electrolytes to attain efficient fuel cells.

Graphene is a unique nanocarbon nanostructure, which has been frequently used to form nanocomposites. Green-synthesized graphene has been focused due to environmentally friendly requirements in recent technological sectors. A very important application of green-synthesized graphene-based nanocomposite has been observed in energy storage devices. This state-of-the-art review highlights design, features, and advanced functions of polymer/green-synthesized graphene nanocomposites and their utility in supercapacitor components. Green graphene-derived nanocomposites brought about numerous revolutions in high-performance supercapacitors. The structural diversity of conjugated polymer and green graphene-based nanocomposites has facilitated the charge transportation/storage capacity, specific capacitance, capacitance retention, cyclability, and durability of supercapacitor electrodes. Moreover, the green method, graphene functionality, dispersion, and matrix–nanofiller interactions have affected supercapacitance properties and performance. Future research on innovative polymer and green graphene-derived nanocomposites may overcome design/performance-related challenging factors for technical usages.

This cutting-edge review highlights the fundamentals, design, and manufacturing strategies used for sandwich composites. Sandwich composite structures have the advantages of light weight, high strength, impact resistance, stability, and other superior features for advanced applications. In this regard, different core materials have been used in the sandwich composite structures, such as cellular polymer foam, metallic foam, honeycomb, balsa, tubular, and other core geometries. Among these, honeycomb sandwich composite materials have been effectively applied in space engineering, marine engineering, and construction applications. The foremost manufacturing techniques used for sandwiched composite structures include hand lay-up, press method, prepreg method, vacuum bagging/autoclave, vacuum assisted resin infusion, resin transfer molding, compression molding, pultrusion, three-dimensional (3D) printing, four-dimensional (4D) printing, etc. In advanced composite manufacturing, autoclave processes have been the method of choice for the aerospace industry due to less delamination between plies and easy control of thickness dimensions. Moreover, machining processes used for sandwich composites are discussed in this article. In addition to aerospace, the high-performance significance of sandwiched composite structures is covered mainly in relation to automobile engineering and energy absorption applications. The structure-, fabrication-, and application-related challenges and probable future research directions are also discussed in this article.

Graphene is one of the most significant carbon nanomaterials, with a one-atom-thick two-dimensional nanostructure. Like other nanocarbons, graphene has been used as a polymer reinforcement. This review explores the impact of graphene and graphene-based nanocomposites on aerospace applications. The fabrication and indispensable features of graphene-derived nanocomposites have been considered. Numerous polymers and nanocomposites have been employed for aerospace systems such as reinforced thermosetting/thermoplastic polymers and epoxy/graphene nanocomposites. Moreover, graphene-modified carbon-fiber-based composites have been discussed for the space sector. Aerospace nanocomposites with graphene have been investigated for superior processability, structural features, morphology, heat stability, mechanical properties, flame resistance, electrical/thermal conductivity, radiation protection, and adhesion applications. Subsequently, epoxy and graphene-derived nanocomposites have been explored for heat/mechanically stable aerospace engineering structures, radiation-shielding materials, adhesives, coatings, etc.

This review deals with the progress in the field of polymer/fullerene nanocomposites particularly for the energy storage applications. Fullerene is a unique zero dimensional nanocarbon nanomaterial. Fullerene proposes several unique structural, optical, electrical, thermal, mechanical and other superior physical features to the polymeric nanocomposites. Consequently, the high performance polymer/fullerene nanocomposites result from the amalgamation of the unique characteristics of fullerene with the functional polymers. Here, the advancements in the polymer/fullerene nanocomposites regarding their processing and properties, especially the electrical conductivity, charge storage capacities, charge density, power density, charge-discharge, and cyclic performance have been discussed. Moreover, the future and challenging prospects have been summarized anticipating the progress in the field of polymer/fullerene-based energy storage technology.

Graphite (stacked graphene layers) has been modified in several ways to enhance its potential properties/utilities. One approach is to convert graphite into a unique ‘nano-graphite’ form. Nano-graphite consists of few-layered graphene, multi-layered graphene, graphite nanoplatelets, and other graphene aggregates. Graphite can be converted to nano-graphite using physical and chemical methods. Nano-graphite, similar to graphite, has been reinforced in conducting polymers/thermoplastics/rubbery matrices to develop high-performance nanocomposites. Nano-graphite and polymer/nano-graphite nanomaterials have characteristics that are advantageous over those of pristine graphitic materials. This review basically highlights the essential features, design versatilities, and applications of polymer/nano-graphite nanocomposites in solar cells, electromagnetic shielding, and electronic devices.

Initially, pristine polymers were used to develop corrosion-resistant coatings. Later, the trend shifted to the use of polymeric nanocomposites in anti-corrosion materials. In this regard, graphene has been identified as an important corrosion-resistant nanomaterial. Consequently, polymer/graphene nanocomposites have been applied for erosion protection applications. Among polymers, conducting polymers (polyaniline, polypyrrole, polythiophene, etc.) and nonconducting polymers (epoxy, poly(methyl methacrylate), etc.) have been used as matrices for anticorrosion graphene nanocomposites. The corrosion-resistant polymer/graphene nanocomposites have found several important applications in biomedical fields such as biocompatible materials, biodegradable materials, bioimplants, tissue engineering, and drug delivery. The biomedical performance of the nanomaterials depends on the graphene dispersion and interaction with the polymers and living systems. Future research on the anti-corrosion polymer/graphene nanocomposite is desirable to perceive further advanced applications in the biomedical arenas.

Supercapacitors have attained a special stance among energy storage devices such as capacitors, batteries, fuel cell, and so forth. In this state-of-the-art overview on green synthesis approaches and green materials for supercapacitors, the cutting-edge green polymer/nanocarbon nanocomposite systems were explored by focusing on the design and related essential features. In this regard, various polymers were reconnoitered including conjugated polymers, thermosetting matrices, and green-cellulose-based matrices. Nanocarbon nanomaterials have also expanded research thoughtfulness for green-technology-based energy storage devices. Consequently, green polymer/nanocarbon nanocomposites have publicized fine electron conduction pathways to promote the charge storage, specific capacitance, energy density, and other essential features of supercapacitors. Future research directions must focus on the design of novel high performance green nanocomposites for energy storage applications.

Optoelectronic devices have been developed using the polymer/fullerene nanocomposite, as focused in this review. The polymer/fullerene nanocomposite shows significant structural, electronics, optical, and useful physical properties in optoelectronics. Non-conducting and conducting polymeric nanocomposites have been applied in optoelectronics, such as light-emitting diodes, solar cells, and sensors. Inclusion of fullerene has further broadened the methodological application of the polymer/fullerene nanocomposite. The polymeric matrices and fullerene may have covalent or physical interactions for charge or electron transportation and superior optical features. Green systems have also been explored in optoelectronic devices; however, due to limited efforts, further design innovations are desirable in green optoelectronics. Nevertheless, the advantages and challenges of the green polymer/fullerene nanocomposite in optoelectronic devices yet need to be explored.

Initially, this review presents the fundamentals of corrosion-resistant polymer/fullerene nanocomposites. Then, the potential of polymer/fullerene nanocomposites for corrosion resistance in biomedical applications is presented. In particular, anticorrosion biomedical applications of fullerene-based nanomaterials are proposed for antimicrobial applications, drug delivery, bioimaging, etc. According to the literature, due to the low conductivity/anticorrosion features of pristine thermoplastic polymers, conjugated polymers (polyaniline, polypyrrole, polythiophene, etc.) with high corrosion resistance performance were used. Subsequently, thermoplastic/thermosetting polymers were filled with nanoparticles to enhance their anticorrosion properties relative to those of neat polymers. Accordingly, fullerene-derived nanocomposites were found to be effective for corrosion protection. Polymer/fullerene nanocomposites with a fine dispersion and interactions revealed superior anticorrosion performance. The formation of a percolation network in the polymers/fullerenes facilitated their electron conductivity and, thus, corrosion resistance behavior. Consequently, the anticorrosion polymer/fullerene nanocomposites were applied in the biomedical field. However, this field needs to be further explored to see the full biomedical potential of anticorrosion polymer/fullerene nanocomposites.

To secure existing water resources is one of the imposing challenges to attain sustainability and ecofriendly world. Subsequently, several advanced technologies have been developed for water treatment. The most successful methodology considered so far is the development of water filtration membranes for desalination, ion permeation, and microbes handling. Various types of membranes have been industrialized including nanofiltration, microfiltration, reverse osmosis, and ultrafiltration membranes. Among polymeric nanocomposites, nanocarbon (fullerene, graphene, and carbon nanotubes)-reinforced nanomaterials have gained research attention owing to notable properties/applications. Here, fullerene has gained important stance amid carbonaceous nanofillers due to zero dimensionality, high surface areas, and exceptional physical properties such as optical, electrical, thermal, mechanical, and other characteristics. Accordingly, a very important application of polymer/fullerene C60 nanocomposites has been observed in the membrane sector. This review is basically focused on talented applications of polymer/fullerene nanocomposite membranes in water treatment. The polymer/fullerene nanostructures bring about numerous revolutions in the field of high-performance membranes because of better permeation, water flux, selectivity, and separation performance. The purpose of this pioneering review is to highlight and summarize current advances in the field of water purification/treatment using polymer and fullerene-based nanocomposite membranes. Particular emphasis is placed on the development of fullerene embedded into a variety of polymer membranes (Nafion, polysulfone, polyamide, polystyrene, etc.) and effects on the enhanced properties and performance of the resulting water treatment membranes. Polymer/fullerene nanocomposite membranes have been developed using solution casting, phase inversion, electrospinning, solid phase synthesis, and other facile methods. The structural diversity of polymer/fullerene nanocomposites facilitates membrane separation processes, especially for valuable or toxic metal ions, salts, and microorganisms. Current challenges and opportunities for future research have also been discussed. Future research on these innovative membrane materials may overwhelm design and performance-related challenging factors.

Nanoclays are layered aluminosilicate nanostructures. Depending upon the chemical composition and microscopic structure, various nanoclay types have been discovered such as montmorillonite, bentonite, kaolinite, halloysite nanoclay, etc. Nanoclays have been organically modified to develop compatibility with polymers. Polymer/nanoclay nanocomposites have prompted significant breakthroughs in the field of nanocomposite technology. Green nanocomposites form an important class of nanomaterials using naturally derived degradable materials as matrix/nanofiller. This review essentially deliberates the fundamentals and effect of nanoclay reinforcements in the green polymer matrices. Naturally derived polymers such as cellulose, starch, natural rubber, poly(lactic acid), etc. have been employed in these nanocomposites. Green polymer/nanoclay nanocomposites have been fabricated using various feasible fabrication approaches such as the solution route, melt processing, in situ polymerization, and others. The significance of the structure-property relationships in these nanomaterials, essential to attain the desired features, has been presented. Green polymer/nanoclay nanocomposites are light weight, inexpensiveness, ecofriendly, have a low cost, and enhanced indispensable physical properties. Consequently, the green polymer/nanoclay nanocomposites have found applications towards sustainability uses, packaging, membranes, and biomedical (tissue engineering, drug delivery, wound healing) sectors. However, thorough research efforts are desirable to extend the utility of the green polymer/nanoclay nanocomposites in future technological sectors.

Polymeric nanocomposite foams have attracted increasing research attention for technical reasons. Poly(methyl methacrylate) is a remarkable and viable thermoplastic polymer. This review highlights some indispensable aspects of poly(methyl methacrylate) nanocomposite foams with nanocarbon nanofillers (carbon nanotube, graphene, etc.) and inorganic nanoparticles (nanoclay, polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane, silica, etc.). The design and physical properties of poly(methyl methacrylate) nanocomposite foams have been deliberated. It has been observed that processing strategies, nanofiller dispersion, and interfacial interactions in poly(methyl methacrylate)–nanofiller have been found essential to produce high-performance nanocellular foams. The emergent application areas of the poly(methyl methacrylate) nanocomposite foams are electromagnetic interference shielding, sensors, and supercapacitors.

Graphene is a unique nanocarbon nanomaterial, frequently explored with polymeric matrices for technical purposes. An indispensable application of polymer/graphene nanocomposites has been observed for membrane technology. This review highlights the design, properties, and promising features of the polymer/graphene nanomaterials and nanocomposite membranes for the pervasion and purification of toxins, pollutants, microbials, and other desired contents. The morphology, pore size, pore structure, water flux, permeation, salt rejection, and other membrane properties are examined. Graphene oxide, an important modified form of graphene, is also utilized in nanocomposite membranes. Moreover, polymer/graphene nanofibers are employed to develop high-performance membranes for methodological purposes. The adaptability of polymer/graphene nanocomposites is observed for water management and purification technologies.

Graphene oxide is an imperative modified form of graphene. Similar to graphene, graphene oxide has gained vast interest for the myriad of industrial applications. Conjugated polymers or conducting polymers are well known organic materials having conducting backbone. These polymers have semiconducting nature due to π-conjugation along the main chain. Doping and modification have been used to enhance the electrical conductivity of the conjugated polymers. The nanocomposites of the conjugated polymers have been reported with the nanocarbon nanofillers including graphene oxide. This review essentially presents the structure, properties, and advancements in the field of conducting polymer/graphene oxide nanocomposites. The facile synthesis, processability, and physical properties of the polymer/graphene oxide nanocomposites have been discussed. The conjugated polymer/graphene oxide nanocomposites have essential significance for the supercapacitors, solar cells, and anti-corrosion materials. Nevertheless, the further advanced properties and technical applications of the conjugated polymer/graphene oxide nanocomposites need to be explored to overcome the challenges related to the high performance.

The green nanocomposites have elite features of sustainable polymers and eco-friendly nanofillers. The green or eco-friendly nanomaterials are low cost, lightweight, eco-friendly, and highly competent for the range of energy applications. This article initially expresses the notions of eco-polymers, eco-nanofillers, and green nanocomposites. Afterward, the energy-related applications of the green nanocomposites have been specified. The green nanocomposites have been used in various energy devices such as solar cells, batteries, light-emitting diodes, etc. The main focus of this artifact is the energy storage application of green nanocomposites. The capacitors have been recognized as corporate devices for energy storage, particularly electrical energy. In this regard, high-performance supercapacitors have been proposed based on sustainable nanocomposites. Consequently, this article presents various approaches providing key knowledge for the design and development of multi-functional energy storage materials. In addition, the future prospects of the green nanocomposites towards energy storage have been discussed.

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are among the strongest and stiffest contender to be used as filler to elevate the properties of epoxy. The aim of this research work is to evaluate the structural, thermal, and morphological properties of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) hybridized with silver, copper and silver/copper nanoparticles (Ag/CuNP) obtained via chemical reduction of aqueous salts assisted with sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS) as stabilizing agent. The MWCNTs/NP was further incorporated in DGEBA (epoxy) using ethyl cellulose as hardener. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) reveals micro structural analysis of the MWCNTs/NP hybrids. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra prove the interactions between the NP and MWCNTs. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) shows that the MWCNTs/NP hybrids decompose at a much faster rate and the weight loss decreased considerably due to the presence of NP. X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirms the formation of NP on the surface of MWCNTs and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirms the full covering of MWCNTs/NP hybrids with DGEBA.