Carbon Nanocomposite Based Mechanical Sensing and Energy Harvesting

Abstract

Progresses in sensor and energy technologies have been an important driving force for the rapid development of these industries and have drawn the attention of researchers on environmental concerns. In particular, carbon nanomaterial (carbon nanotubes, graphene, graphite, etc.)-based composites are widely used for sensor and energy harvesting applications owing to their excellent electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties. In this review, we have discussed various aspects of the use of carbon nanocomposites for the development of sensor and energy harvesting devices. These devices have shown outstanding sensing and energy harvesting performances. Various carbon nanomaterial-based composites with sophisticated structural and material designs have been developed to improve their sensing performance for various applications. We have also reviewed recent technological developments in carbon nanocomposite-based energy generators that adopt thermoelectric and triboelectric working mechanisms. Further research on the development of carbon nanocomposites with enhanced sensing and energy harvesting properties will expand the range of their applications to automotive, aerospace, artificial skin, healthcare, and environmental/infrastructure industries.