Graphene Applications in Composites, Energy, and Water Treatment

Abstract

Graphene, the 2D material and the basic building block of the sp₂ carbon family has received enormous attention from research and industrial communities due to its remarkable properties. Graphene's potential to be implemented is limitless and it varies from medical, water, energy, composites sectors, etc. In this paper, graphene potential in composites, energy storage, and water purification are highlighted. Reviewing, in particular, the crucial role of graphene/polymer interface in improving the mechanical properties of polymer nanocomposites and the effect of constitutive parameters such as graphene lateral size and surface chemistry. Moreover, the latest contributions of graphene and graphene derivatives in functional composites, such as sensors, actuators, hydrogels, and aerogels, are reviewed. This is followed by reviewing graphene and its derivatives for energy storage such as in lithium-ion batteries, metal–air batteries, and graphene-based supercapacitors. Finally, reporting the latest advances in graphene for water treatment, reviewing the different filtration/treatment methods, and the importance of graphene selective permeability properties.