Graphene-based polymer blend nanocomposites for energy storage applications

The rapid depletion of nonrenewable fossil fuels and growing energy consumption have led to the development of sustainable and renewable energy sources. The energy crisis and environmental pollution can be alleviated with the help of sustainable and ecologically friendly energy storage and conversion systems. Polymer-based composites with excellent dielectric stability are good candidates for energy storage applications. Among different nanofillers, the wide use of graphene in energy storage devices is due to its large surface area, excellent electronic conductivity, and simplicity of electrode fabrication. The unique 2D structure and flexibility makes it an excellent material for the fabrication of ultracapacitors. However, in polymeric matrices, graphene sheets undergo self-stacking, resulting in poor capacitive performance, and currently scientists are interested in boosting the overall performance of polymer composites of graphene for energy storage. The nanocomposites prepared from conducting polymers are extremely desirable for conversion and storage of electrochemical energy because of their excellent electrochemical properties, promising catalytic activity, and high conductivity. This chapter discusses energy storage devices, derivatives of graphene used for energy storage, and devices that are made up of conducting polymers.