Silver Nanoparticles for the Energy Future: Synthesis, Smart Properties and Disruptive Applications

Silver nanoparticles have garnered significant attention due to their unique properties, including high surface area, excellent electrical conductivity, and catalytic activity. The present review explores the synthesis methods, characterization, properties, and applications of AgNPs, particularly in the field of energy storage. Multiple synthesis techniques including physical, chemical, and biological methods are discussed and their advantages and limitations are emphasized. The properties of AgNPs, such as size-dependent optical behavior, enhanced surface reactivity, and stability play a pivotal role in their integration into energy storage devices. Specifically, AgNPs have shown promise in improving the performance of supercapacitors, lithium-ion batteries and other energy storage systems by enhancing charge or discharge rates, cycling stability, and overall efficiency. Additionally, the potential for AgNPs in hybrid energy storage systems and their ability to optimize the performance of electrodes is explored. This review also addresses the challenges associated with the scale-up of AgNP production, environmental concerns, and the future prospects for AgNPs in energy storage technologies. The growing interest in these nanoparticles underscores their potential to contribute to the development of next-generation energy storage solutions.