Graphene-based technologies for energy applications, challenges and perspectives

TL;DR

This paper reviews recent developments in graphene-based energy technologies, highlighting composite materials, surface engineering, and integration methods, while discussing challenges and future perspectives for energy applications.

Contribution

It presents new approaches for integrating graphene into energy devices, combining experimental and modeling results to enhance performance and address technical challenges.

Findings

Graphene composites improve hydrogen storage and solar absorption.

Surface technologies enhance photovoltaic electrode interfaces.

Laser irradiation offers novel integration strategies.

Abstract

Here we report on technology developments implemented into the Graphene Flagship European project for the integration of graphene and graphene-related materials (GRMs) into energy application devices. Many of the technologies investigated so far aim at producing composite materials associating graphene or GRMs with either metal or semiconducting nanocrystals or other carbon nanostructures (e.g., CNT, graphite). These composites can be used favourably as hydrogen storage materials or solar cell absorbers. They can also provide better performing electrodes for fuel cells, batteries, or supercapacitors. For photovoltaic (PV) electrodes, where thin layers and interface engineering are required, surface technologies are preferred. We are using conventional vacuum processes to integrate graphene as well as radically new approaches based on laser irradiation strategies. For each application, the potential of implemented technologies is then presented on the basis of selected experimental and modelling results. It is shown in particular how some of these technologies can maximize the benefit taken from GRM integration. The technical challenges still to be addressed are highlighted and perspectives derived from the running works emphasized.