Graphene-Elastomer Composite for Energy Storage Applications: Fundamentals to Applications

Since its first revelation in 2004, two-dimensional single atom layer thick graphene has received significant attention in various industrial sectors, thanks to its outstanding mechanical strength, intrinsic flexibility, high specific surface area and unique electrical and thermal conductivity. Incorporation of graphene as nanofillers in an elastomeric system not only results in material property enhancements but also contributes to establishing new composite functionalities. The present chapter reviews the synthetic approaches and physicochemical characterization of elastomer/graphene nanocomposites with special emphasis toward energy storage applications. The preparation techniques leading to graphene nanofiller dispersions in various elastomeric composites and its role in physicochemical properties such as mechanical, electrical and thermal conductivity have been critically reviewed in the chapter. Finally, the role of elastomer/graphene composites on the energy storage applications such as dielectric capacitors, supercapacitors, fuel cells, rechargeable batteries, thermal energy storage systems and flow batteries has also been discussed.