Diverse Applications of Graphene-Based Polymer Nanocomposites

Polymer nanocomposites are unique materials reinforced with nanoscale additives. Among a variety of nanomaterials available to act as filler additives in different polymer matrices, graphene is the most versatile one. Graphene-based polymer nanocomposites have improved electrical, mechanical, chemical, and thermal properties, which make them suitable for applications in the electronics, energy, sensor, and space sectors. Graphene, the nanosized filler, can be prepared using either a top-down or a bottom-up approach and dispersed in the polymer matrix utilizing different conventional techniques. The nanocomposite materials find usage in suitable area of applications depending on their specific characteristics. This chapter discusses the current state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques for graphene and graphene-based nanocomposite materials. Application of graphene-based polymer nanocomposites in the various fields with an emphasis on the areas high heat flux applications requiring enhanced thermal conductivity will be an additional major focus of this chapter.