Multifunctional Nanocomposites for Energy and Sensing applications

Over the past two decades, multifunctional nanocomposites (MFNCs) have emerged as a new class of hybrid systems, capable of performing different tasks under the same design effort. Although, as in classical composites, the matrix can be either polymeric, metallic or ceramic, in multifunctional nanocomposites the matrix itself can sometimes act as a stimuli-responsive phase. The main difference between a nanocomposite and its multifunctional counterpart, relies in the possibility for the latter to display different properties, depending on the specific application. Such multifunctionality can stem either from specific properties of the matrix and the nanofiller, or from the synergistic effect of their peculiar combination. Given their large versatility, MFNCs can be employed in a wide range of fields, spanning from tissue engineering, energy harvesting, robotics, space exploration, EM shielding and sensing, to name a few. The session will present an overview of the recent trends in the area, with a specific focus in applications related to energy harvesting and sensing