A comprehensive review of graphene-based nanocomposites for high-performance energy storage: advances in design, electrochemical mechanisms, and future prospects
摘要
Graphene-based nanocomposites have emerged as a transformative class of materials for high-performance energy storage applications, owing to their exceptional electrical conductivity, large surface area, and superior electrochemical stability. When integrated with metal oxides, conducting polymers, or emerging two-dimensional (2D) materials, graphene enables synergistic enhancements in energy density, power output, and long-term cycling stability outperforming traditional electrode materials. Unlike previous reviews that primarily describe graphene’s advantages or summarize device-specific studies, this work provides a critical and comparative assessment linking synthesis strategies, structural engineering, and electrochemical mechanisms across diverse graphene-based nanocomposites. In particular, it elucidates how different graphene derivatives graphene oxide (GO), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), pristine graphene, and three-dimensional (3D) graphene frameworks govern ion diffusion, charge storage dynamics, and electrode stability. Furthermore, this review highlights emerging structure performance relationships, emphasizing the roles of 3D graphene architectures, heteroatom doping, and defect engineering in overcoming persistent limitations such as restacking, poor interfacial compatibility, and scalability challenges. Novel strategies integrating AI-assisted material optimization and sustainable synthesis routes are also discussed as pathways toward next-generation, flexible energy storage devices. By consolidating recent developments and providing a unified, mechanism-driven perspective, this review offers a timely and authoritative reference for advancing the design of high-efficiency, durable, and environmentally sustainable graphene-based nanocomposites.