Advanced Nanomaterials and Composites : Volume 1

This book provides a comprehensive exploration of the latest advancements in nanomaterials research and applications in energy and electronics. The book provides an overview on the fundamentals, synthesis, and characterization techniques for nanomaterials, providing readers with the foundational knowledge necessary to understand the diverse range of materials available for energy and electronic applications. The critical areas of focus in volume 1 are the application of nanomaterials in renewable energy technologies, particularly in photovoltaic systems and energy storage devices. The book explores how nanostructured materials can enhance the efficiency of solar cells, leading to greater energy conversion rates and lower production costs. Additionally, the role of nanomaterials in batteries and supercapacitors is discussed, emphasizing their potential to improve energy density, charge/discharge rates, and overall lifespan. These advancements are vital for the transition to sustainable energy solutions and the reduction of reliance on fossil fuels.

In the area of electronics, the book addresses the integration of nanomaterials into electronic devices, focusing on their use in sensors, transistors, and flexible electronics. The unique electrical properties of nanomaterials enable the development of smaller, faster, and more efficient electronic components. Moreover, the potential for creating flexible and wearable electronic devices will be explored, highlighting the implications of these technologies for consumer electronics and healthcare applications.

Prof. Soney C. George is currently Dean of research at Amal Jyothi College of Engineering, Kanjirappaly, and Director of Center for Nanoscience Technology. He obtained his Ph.D. in Polymer Chemistry from the Mahatma Gandhi University, India. He completed his postdoctoral studies at the University of Blasé Pascal, France, and Inha University South Korea. He is Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, London, and Recipient of “National Technical Teachers Award 2022 from All India Council for Technical Education, Government of India and   best researcher of the year 2018” award from APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University, Thiruvananthapuram, India. His research interests are in the areas of polymer science, polymer blends and composites, nanocomposites, polymer tribology, supercapacitors, polymer membranes, and& transport phenomena.

Dr. Benjamin Tawiah is Lecturer at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. He obtained his Ph.D. from the Hong Kong Polytechnic University where he worked as Postdoctoral Fellow. He also worked as Research Associate in the City University of Hong Kong. He is currently Visiting Scholar at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University. His research interests are in the areas of nanofillers, nanocomposites, flame-retardant polymer composites, and second-generation batteries for energy storage.

Prof. Mohan Jacob is Dean of Research Infrastructure at James Cook University and has been serving as Associate Dean of Research Education for the College of Science and Engineering since 2014. Currently, he focuses on the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly materials for various applications. He is Pioneer in microwave-assisted pyrolysis for waste conversion, particularly in the areas of “Waste to Resources” and “Waste to Energy” and circular economy. He has developed various microwave-assisted waste processing systems and scaled up these systems for industrial applications.

Prof. Józef T. Haponiuk has been employed at Gdansk University of Technology, Chemical Faculty, Polymer Technology Department, since 1974. He obtained his Ph.D. title from the Technische Hochschule Leuna—Merseburg (Germany). His research interests are in the area of synthesis, technology, and applications of polyurethanes, biopolymers, polymer blends and composites, nanocomposites, polymers of natural origin, reactive extrusion of polymers, and recycling of polymers and rubber.