Elastomeric polymer blend nanocomposites for energy storage applications

Polymer blend nanocomposites based on elastomers for the purpose of energy storage are comprehensively discussed in this chapter, with specific application modes. The application of different kinds of elastomeric blends in the field of energy storage is discussed, including polyethylene oxide (PEO)/polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), silk fibroin/silk sericin, polystyrene (PS)/polyaniline (PANI), thermoplastic polyurethane (PU), elastomer/polylactide (PLA), polyolefin elastomer (POE)/polypropylene (PP), and ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM)/PP blend. Further, the development and application of the various nanocomposites by the incorporation of inorganic nanofillers, which include graphene, TRG, various nanoshell particles, modified CNTs, ZnO nanoparticles, aluminum oxide, titanium dioxide, and organoclay, to the preceding blends and the modifications effected thereafter are also discussed in this chapter. The highlight of the chapter is the examination of the different modes and mechanisms by which these elastomeric nanocomposites can effectively function as energy storage systems. The applications of these materials as energy separators, EMI shielding systems, electroactive actuators, and high-voltage insulating systems are methodically expounded upon in this chapter.