Handbook of Nanomaterials, Volume 1, Chapter 8: Nanomaterials in energy generators

Nanomaterials have become an important area of research for scientists worldwide for their application in energy generation, energy conversion, and energy storage, self-powered devices, etc. It is in high need to find alternate energy sources to the traditional ones for a sustainable environment. Therefore it is important to work on using the excellent properties of nanomaterials to conquer the limitations in selecting materials and fabrication techniques for efficient energy generation instruments to substitute conventional energy storage and energy sources. In this book chapter, we will discuss various nanomaterials synthesis methods and properties for application in energy generation. Further, the practical applications of the various nanomaterials-based energy-generating devices with their performance studies will be discussed as a replacement technology for traditional power sources. This book will draw attention to the complete nanomaterials-based energy generators in terms of thermal, electrical, and mechanical performance and the activity of various nanomaterials in energy-harvesting devices. Finally, we will explain the current challenges in applying nanomaterials in energy generation devices, along with an outlook on the future prospective.